HomeMy WebLinkAbout1. 7-20-2020 Parks Packet
NOTICE OF MEETING
City of Lake Elmo Parks Commission
3800 Laverne Avenue North
July 20, 2020 6:30 PM
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Approve Agenda
4. Approve Minutes
a) None to approve
5. Public Comments
6. Review 2021-2025 CIP
7. Review of Schiltgen Farm PUD
8. Park Naming of Park in Inwood
9. Park Naming of Park in Easton Village
10. August 17, 2020 Meeting Agenda
11. Communications
12. Adjourn
***Note: Every effort will be made to accommodate person or persons that need special considerations to attend this meeting
due to a health condition or disability. Please contact the Lake Elmo City Clerk if you are in need of special accommodations.
Our Mission is to Provide Quality Public
Services in a Fiscally Responsible Manner
While Preserving the City’s Open Space
Character
STAFF REPORT
DATE: July 20, 2020
IT EM #:
TO: Parks Commission
FROM: Ben Prchal, City Planner
AGENDA ITEM: 2021-2025 Parks CIP
REVIEWED BY: Kristina Handt, City Administrator
Marty Powers, Public Works Director
BACKGROUND:
A Capital Improvement Program, or CIP, is a multi-year (typically 5 years) capital expenditure plan for a City’s
infrastructure (such as streets, parks and utility systems), and equipment and public buildings. It identifies the major
projects needed and desired by the community, their potential costs and how they would be financed. A project
identified and budgeted through the CIP does not commit the City to that project. The City Council must
specifically authorize each one, and the associated funding before any project may proceed. When the CIP is
reviewed (ideally annually, in conjunction with the budgeting process) projects may go forward as planned,
advance ahead of schedule, be removed entirely, or new projects may be added, these adjustments are dependent
upon changes in circumstances and priorities.
The Minnesota Land Planning Act requires that the implementation plan portion of the Comprehensive Plan include
a CIP for major infrastructure needs (transportation, wastewater, water supply, parks and open space) for a five-
year time period. Cities often expand the scope of their CIPs to include other capital needs (major equipment
replacements, for example) and sometimes look beyond the five-year time period, up to 20 years in the future for
some projects. Such projects represent more of a “wish-list” that can be evaluated each time the plan is updated.
As a part of the Comprehensive Plan, the CIP has some legal standing. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 473.865
provides that “a local governmental unit shall not adopt any official control or fiscal device which is in conflict with
its comprehensive plan.” A fiscal device includes a budget or bond issue; so it is important that the plan and CIP be
kept up to date and in synch with city budgets.
The primary benefit of a CIP is as a financial planning tool, to help the City plan for the impact of capital needs on
future budgets and property taxes, and to help forecast the need for borrowing to undertake major projects. The
information developed as part of the capital planning process can help document the need for various projects and
help the City Council sort out competing priorities.
Lake Elmo’s CIP includes all capital projects that cost at least $25,000 and have a useful life span of five years or
longer.
ISSUE BEFORE COMMISSION:
What parks improvements should be included in the 2021-2025 CIP? When should they be completed?
PROPOSAL DETAILS/ANALYSIS:
Included in your packet is a document listing all of the City parks and trail projects that Staff is aware of at this
time. Note that the amount shown for the Central greenway Corridor has changed and will continue to change over
time as the installation/development is aligned to coincide with projects that Washington County has identified in
their CIP. More costs will be added as more segments of the trails are planned. City costs for the full build out may
be around $3 million depending on grants, development and county cost share.
The commission may also want to consider putting a place holder in the CIP for improvements needed to other city
trails throughout the community. Public works staff will be working over the summer to review all city trails and
develop a maintenance plan and long range improvement plan that could be included next year in the 2021-2025
CIP.
Other Items? Any other items the Parks Commission would like to see in the 2021-2025 CIP need to be identified.
Each member should come prepared to identify their top 3 priorities for the next 5 years.
The commission can then also assign a priority to each project based upon the following framework:
1.Critical or urgent, high-priority projects that should be done if at all possible; a special effort should be
made to find sufficient funding for all of the projects in this group.
2.Very important, high-priority projects that should be done as funding becomes available.
3. Important and worthwhile projects to be considered if funding is available; may be deferred to a subsequent
year.
4.Less important, low-priority projects; desirable but not essential.
5. Future Consideration
When determining a project, the Commission should keep in mind the requirements set out in the City Code.
Section 154.15 Park Land Dedication Requirements (F) Park Dedication Fund outlines the parameters of where
funds can be spent.
(F)Park Dedication Fund
(1) A cash contribution paid to the City shall be placed in a special fund. The money shall be used only for:
(a) The acquisition and development or improvement of parks, recreational facilities, playgrounds,
trails, wetlands or open space based on the approved park systems plan;
(b) Redevelopment or rehabilitation of existing park facilities or sites; or
(c) Debt service in connection with land previously acquired or improvements thereto previously
constructed.
(2)No funds shall be used for ongoing operation or maintenance of existing parks recreational facilities or
sites or City vehicles.
Items Scheduled for 2020. There are projects scheduled for 2020 that have been planned for but the funds have
not been spent yet. Those projects are listed below.
- Sunfish Lake Park Mountain Trail System $120,000 expenditure
- Inwood Park Improvements $145,549.69
FISCAL IMPACT:
The fiscal impact is dependent upon project selection and available funds.
2020 Expenses still to come:
Sunfish Trails 120,000
Inwood Park $145,549.69
TOTAL 2020 Expenses $265,549.69
Expected Funds in 2020:
Union Park $124,000 (phase 1)
Wyndham $75,000
Applewood Point $132,280
Total $331,280
Park Dedication Fund Balance (6.9.2020 does not include “Expected Funds”) $1,318,556
Fund Balance after 2020 Expenses $1,053,006.4
OPTIONS:
1)Commission identify additional projects to add to the 2021-2025 CIP
2)If no further projects are identified, the listed projects would be forwarded on for review and processed by
Finance and Council.
ATTACHMENTS:
•2021-2025 Draft Capital Improvement Plan for Parks
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota Contact City Administrator
2021 2025thru Department Parks and Recreation
Description
Central Greenway Regional Trail beginning at CSAH 19 and I-94, traveling through Lake Elmo Park Reserve, east along Stillwater Bvld to
Manning Ave and then north to TH36.
Project #PR-009
Priority 3 Important
Justification
Trail would address the following community needs:
-Deliver students safely to school
-Bring people to our downtown
-Bring people to our parks
-Provide safe recreation
-Trail Diversity-Provide feel of Lake Elmo
-Omit need to bike down Hwy 5/CSAH 14
-Compatibility with public grant opportunities
-Compatibility with private funding opportunities
Feasibility of land acquisition will be a consideration
Trail likely to be built in segments in conjuction with county road projects and as funding allows through Met Council or other state grants
Budget Impact/Other
Additional trails to maintain-labor and materials for snow removal if desired by city
Trail construction cost may be as high as $12 million. City would expect cost share with county as well as grants to offset costs.
2023 costs are for trail through new roundabout at CSAH 19 and CSAH 10 and trail extension abutting Hagebergs
Future costs will be added as they are known
Useful Life
Project Name Central Greenway Regional Trail Category Park Improvements
Type Improvement
Status Active
Total20212022202320242025Expenditures
220,000220,000Construction/Maintenance
220,000 220,000Total
Total20212022202320242025Funding Sources
220,000220,000Park Dedication Fund
220,000 220,000Total
Friday, June 5, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota Contact Public Works Director
2021 2025thru Department Parks and Recreation
Description
F550 pickup dump truck with chipper box and plow mount replaces 2009 vehicle.
Project #PR-015
Priority 3 Important
Justification
End of Useful life
Budget Impact/Other
Useful Life
Project Name Dump Truck Category Vehicles
Type Equipment
Status Active
Total20212022202320242025Expenditures
70,00070,000Equip/Vehicles/Furnishings
70,000 70,000Total
Total20212022202320242025Funding Sources
70,00070,000Vehicle Replacement Fund
70,000 70,000Total
Friday, June 5, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota Contact City Administrator
2021 2025thru Department Parks and Recreation
Description
New ballfields to be constructed or refurbished after Tartan ball fields are no longer used by the public
Project #PR-017
Priority 1 Critical
Justification
Replacement of some of the fields at Tartan Park lost to development of Royal Oaks Golf Course Community
Budget Impact/Other
Funding to be provided from developer in development agreement with Royal Golf. Funds to be used for acquisition of land, if necessary, and
builidngor refurbishing of (a) new ballfield(s).
Useful Life 40 years
Project Name New or Refurbished Ballfields Category Park Improvements
Type Improvement
Status Active
Total20212022202320242025Expenditures
1,000,0001,000,000Construction/Maintenance
1,000,000 1,000,000Total
Total20212022202320242025Funding Sources
1,000,0001,000,000Grants/Donation
1,000,000 1,000,000Total
Friday, June 5, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota Contact Public Works Director
2021 2025thru Department Parks and Recreation
Description
Parks commission recommended the search and planning for a dog park somewhere near the denser developments
Improvements would be minimal such as fencing
Project #PR-019
Priority 4 Less Important
Justification
Residents on small lots in denser developments need a place to take their dogs for exercise.
By providing a dog park those who let their dogs run off leash in other parks can be redirected
Budget Impact/Other
Useful Life 25 years
Project Name Dog Park Category Park Improvements
Type Improvement
Status Active
Total20212022202320242025Expenditures
25,00025,000Construction/Maintenance
25,000 25,000Total
Total20212022202320242025Funding Sources
25,00025,000Park Dedication Fund
25,000 25,000Total
Friday, June 5, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota Contact Public Works Director
2021 2025thru Department Parks and Recreation
Description
Replaces 2014 Kubota
Project #PR-020
Priority 3 Important
Justification
End of Useful Life
Budget Impact/Other
Useful Life 10 years
Project Name Utility Vehicile/Trail Groomer Category Vehicles
Type Equipment
Status Active
Total20212022202320242025Expenditures
37,00037,000Equip/Vehicles/Furnishings
37,000 37,000Total
Total20212022202320242025Funding Sources
37,00037,000Vehicle Replacement Fund
37,000 37,000Total
Friday, June 5, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota
PROJECT LISTING20212025thru
Includes Projects from All Years
Parks and Recreation
Status Project #Project Name
50th Street TrailPendingPR-002
Demontreville Park ImprovementsPendingPR-003
Sunfish Lake Park ImprovementsPendingPR-007
Central Greenway Regional TrailActivePR-009
Dump TruckActivePR-015
New or Refurbished BallfieldsActivePR-017
Dog ParkActivePR-019
Utility Vehicile/Trail GroomerActivePR-020
Friday, May 1, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
Capital Improvement Plan - 2021 - 2025
City of Lake Elmo, Minnesota
PROJECTS & FUNDING SOURCES BY DEPARTMENT
2021 2030thru
Total20212022202320242025Department20262027202820292030Project #
Parks and Recreation
PR-009Central Greenway Regional Trail 220,000220,000
220,000220,000Park Dedication Fund
PR-015 70,000Dump Truck 70,000
70,00070,000Vehicle Replacement Fund
PR-017 1,000,000New or Refurbished Ballfields 1,000,000
1,000,0001,000,000Grants/Donation
PR-019Dog Park 25,00025,000
25,00025,000Park Dedication Fund
PR-020 37,000Utility Vehicile/Trail Groomer 37,000
37,00037,000Vehicle Replacement Fund
1,352,0001,070,000 245,000 37,000Parks and Recreation Total
1,352,0001,070,000 245,000 37,000GRAND TOTAL
Friday, June 5, 2020Produced Using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software
1
STAFF REPORT
PARKS
COMMISSION DATE:
7-20-2020
TO: Parks Commission
FROM: Ben Prchal, City Planner
AGENDA ITEM: Schitlgen Farm Concept Planned Unit Development (PUD) Plan Review
REVIEWED BY: Ken Roberts, Planning Director
BACKGROUND:
Mr. Ben Schmidt, representing the Excelsior Group, is requesting approval of a concept planned unit development
(PUD) for the Schiltgen Farm property located 10880 Stillwater Boulevard.
The proposed concept PUD has a total of 318 housing units – 200 single family home sites and 118 townhouse or
row home units on 105.3 acres (net) with a density of about 3.0 dwelling units per acre (D.U.A). A western portion
of the development site is within the Shoreland Management Area of Sunfish Lake. This triggers the need for a
Planned Unit Development because the proposed lots do not meet the lot area, lot width and impervious
requirements listed in the City’s Shoreland Code for Natural Environment lakes.
ISSUE BEFORE THE COMMISSION:
The Commission is respectfully being requested to review and provide feedback to the developer, and make a
recommendation on proposed parkland and trails to the City Council for the Concept Planned Unit Development.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Applicant: Excelsior Group (Ben Schmidt), 1660 Highway 100 South, Suite 400, Saint Louis Park,
MN 55416
Property Owner: Schiltgen Farms Inc. 10880 Stillwater Boulevard, Lake Elmo
Location: 10880 Stillwater Blvd, Lake Elmo
Four Parcels all in Section 14, Township 29 North, Range 21 West, Washington County,
Minnesota.
PID#s: 1402921140001, 1402921410003, 1402921410001 and 1402921410002
Request: Concept PUD Plans approval
Site Area: 123.4 acres (all PIDs)
Residential Development Area: 105.3 acres
Existing Land Use Designation: V-LDR (Village Low Density Residential)
Proposed Land Use Designation: V-MDR (Village Medium Density Residential)
Current Zoning: RT – Rural Development Transitional District
Proposed Zoning: VMX/PUD (Village Mixed Use/PUD)
Surrounding Zoning: V-LDR/PUD (north)/ PF – Public Facilities (east)/ RS across railroad tracks
(south)/ RT and RR (west).
Deadline for Action: Application Complete – 5/07/2020
60 Day Deadline – 7/05/2020
Extension Letter Mailed – No
120 Day Deadline – 9-3-2020
Applicable Code: Article 12 – Urban Residential Districts
Article 18 – Planned Unit Development Regulations
Article 19 – Shoreland Management Overlay District
Chapter 153 – Subdivision Regulations
§150.270 Storm Water, Erosion, and Sediment Control
2
PROPOSAL DETAILS/ANALYSIS:
Development Summary.
In order for the development to be approved there are some zoning related amendments that need to take place. For
example they will need approval of a comprehensive plan amendment, which will adjust the guided land use for the
property. The intent of this amendment would allow multi-family housing units to be incorporated into the portion
of the development south of Stillwater Blvd. At this time the developer has submitted a proposal which consists
of 118 town house units and 200 single family units. The table below provides a breakout of how the land is
developed. With this in mind the number units compared to the net acreage results with density count of 3 du/acre.
Parks and Trails.
•Park Dedication Requirement. The developer is required to provide the City with either physical land, cash
payment, or a combination of both. The developer will be required to provide the City with 10% of the land,
which would come to 12.34 acres.
•Park Dedication. There are large sections of the development which are left open (20.8 acres), specifically
next to the lake. Much of that is undevelopable due to the existing slopes and the requirements in the
shoreland code.
•Neighborhood Park Search Area. The Comprehensive Park Plan identifies a neighborhood park search area
over a portion of the proposed development area. The Comprehensive Parks Plan also identifies this
development in the search area for a Sports Complex/community park. The Commission should consider the
need of a neighborhood park within the development site or a community sports complex in this area.
•HOA Land. The developer intends to preserve the barn and there will be 4 acres of land around the barn that
will also be undeveloped and owned by the HOA.
Total Site Area 123.4 acres (gross)
Residential Site Area 105.3 acres (Net)
Outlot & Open Space Areas 24.8 acres (20.8 acre open space/green area and 4 acres open space area – barn)
Ponding Areas 10.6 acres
Stillwater Blvd ROW 5.5 acres
Lake Elmo Ave ROW 2 acres
Wetland Area 10.6 acres
Residential Lot Area 105.3 acres (net)
Neighborhood Park Search Area (2040 Comprehensive Plan)
3
Trails. The Comprehensive Trails Plan identifies a needed trail along Lake Elmo Avenue and for a trail along
Stillwater Boulevard. Washington County is planning for a trail in this corridor as part of their Central Greenway,
which was a jointly planned trail segment with the City of Lake Elmo. This trail segment is critical to the connection
of the entire network. These trail segments have been planned for many years and this development creates an
opportunity to install a new section of the Central Greenway Trail.
The Concept Plan shows an internal trail network that would also extend into Legacy at North Star along
the roadway (Northern Development) and connect into downtown Lake Elmo by the rail road tracks. For
reference the trails are shown as blue on the concept map. Fortunately connection into the Legacy development
would also provide access onto the Hamlet on Sunfish Lake Trail network, which is now public.
20.8 Acres
4 Acres
2 Acres
Concept PUD Plan
4
Park Dedication Criteria:
The City Code outlines the type of land that is considered acceptable for park dedication. This language outlined
below, can be found in Section 153.15 Park Land Dedication Requirements.
153.15 Parkland Dedication Requirements.
(C)Land acceptability. The City must approve the location and configuration of any park land which is proposed
for dedication and shall take into consideration the suitability of the land and for its intended purpose; the future
needs of the City for parks, playgrounds, trails, or open space; and the recommendations of the City’s Parks
Commission. The following properties shall not be accepted for park land dedications:
(1) Land dedicated or obtained as easements for streets, sewer, electrical, gas, storm water drainage and retention
areas, or other similar utilities and improvements;
(2) Land which is unusable or of limited use; and/or
(3) Land within a protected wetland or within a flood plain area unless the Council determines that all of the
following criteria are satisfied:
(a) Would be in the best interests of the general public;
(b) Would be valuable resource for environmental preservation, educational, or habitat preservation purposes;
(c) Has an exceptional aesthetic value; and
(d) Would not become financially burdensome to the City as a result of maintenance or preservation
requirements.
Staff has not walked the land but does believe some of the area near the lake would have some value as a “nature
park” and would have similar aesthetics to Sunfish Lake Park. In order for this land to be accepted the City would
need to consider the criteria of 153.15 C 3. a-d (above). Furthermore, trails can count towards the required park
dedication. Unless the trails are public and deeded to the City, dedication credit for the trails should not be considered.
With that said, Staff does believe portions of the open space could count towards the park dedication requirements.
This type of dedication would not lead to further park development as it would more than likely remain
“natural.”
The Commission should also consider the need for a more traditional 2-3 acre neighborhood park within the
development. The Parks Chapter of the 2040 Comprehensive plan defines a neighborhood park as “smaller parks
offering more common and highly-used facilities to immediate area residents.” Within the neighborhood search
area there is not a public park to serve the immediate area. The Parks within Legacy at Northstar are not public and
there would not be a location internal to the development that immediate residents would have access to. The
elementary school is in close proximity but it would require children to cross a busy roadway to utilize the facility.
Being that this is the concept review phase of the development it would be most appropriate to state the types of
facilities the Commission would like to see in a neighborhood park, if desired. For example, a ball field, open field
for field sports, a playground, or a combination.
Size Reference:
Reid Park - The area encompassing the ball field and park is around 3 acres.
Lions Park - 3.36 acres, playground, hockey rink, and ball field
VFW Park - 3.23 acres, ball field
Easton Vil. Park - 1.36 acres, field and playground
Hammes Park - 1.93 acres, playground
OPTIONS:
The Commission may recommend to the City Council:
•The City accept cash in lieu of land.
•The City accept land in lieu of cash.
•The City take a combination of both.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Parks Commission review the proposed Concept Plat and PUD Plans and make
recommendation to Council about the park dedication and trail requirements for the development by choosing one
of the discussed options.
ATTACHMENTS:
•Concept Plan and Narrative •Lake Elmo Park Search Area – Map 6-7
•Washington County Central Greenway Map
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1OFSCHILTGREN PROPERTY
LAKE ELMO, MINNESOTA
8-28-19
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Name
Reg. No.Date
Revisions Date
Designed
Drawn
2019 Pioneer Engineering, P.A.
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
2422 Enterprise Drive (651) 681-1914
Fax: 681-9488www.pioneereng.com
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTSLAND SURVEYORSLAND PLANNERSCIVIL ENGINEERS
xx
I hereby certify that this plan was prepared by
me or under my direct supervision and that I
am a duly Licensed Landscape Architect
under the laws of the State of Minnesota 44763
Jennifer L. Thompson 1THE EXCELSIOR GROUP
1660 HIGHWAY 100 SOUTH, SUITE 400
SAINT LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA 55416
CONCEPT PLAN 5
Section III: Development Concept
21Central Greenway Regional Trail Master Plan Amendment: Lake Elmo Segment \\ June 12, 2019
Figure 21: Trailhead and Rest Stop Locations
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Regional Trail (on existing trail)
Regional Trail Railroad Crossing Alternate
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PARKS, TRAILS & OPEN SPACE
City of Lake Elmo Comprehensive Plan 2040
6-23
Map 6-7. Search Areas for New Parks and Facilities
STAFF REPORT
DATE: July 20, 2020
TO: Parks Commission
FROM: Ben Prchal, City Planner
AGENDA ITEM: Naming of Park in Inwood
BACKGROUND:
In total, the park land in Inwood consists of 12.11 acres however, around 3 is reserved for active recreation
with the rest consisting of “natural area” and a walking trail. At this time Pickle ball courts and a pavilion are
being constructed within the 3 acre area. Until now the park has been un-named and the City is looking to
name the park at this time. Similar to the previous parks, the City posted a poll and notification on the City
website requesting suggestions for a park name. There were many name suggestions that came forward and
Staff has done their best to organize the suggested names to assist with the selection process.
ISSUE BEFORE CITY COUNCIL:
Which name(s) would the Park Commission like to recommend to the City Council for the park in Inwood?
ANALYSIS:
The City received many suggestions for the park and Staff has done their best to group them into two different
categories People/Miscellaneous and Environmental. Staff has provided an explanation for some of the
suggestions, if it was believed to provide extra value for the Commission.
People/Misc.
Friedrich:
According to the census the Friedrich family came to Minnesota in 1872 and was recorded in the Oakdale census in
1875. There is a decent amount of information about the family but there is not a lot of information available
specifically related to Louise.
Environmental
There is nothing specific to say about the environmental names that were submitted. They all meet the
requirements of the policy. Dragonfly Park is similar to the name used for the Wildflower/Village Preserve Park,
Firefly Park. But similarity does not disqualify the name.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
If one name cannot be chosen, up to three name suggestions would be appropriate to bring to City Council. Staff
would also like to remind the commission that they can also recommend a name that is not provided on the list.
ATTACHMENTS:
• Park Naming Policy
• Friedrich Write Up
• Inwood Park Map
People/Misc. Environmental
Friedrich Park (For Louise Friedrich) Hackberry
Equality Ivywood Park (Submitted 3 times)
Westwood (Submitted 2 times) Dragonfly Park
Diversity Park Eagle View Park
The Neighborhood Park Ivy Park (Submitted 2 times)
Hunt Hideaway
Vista View Park
Chapter 2 -Farming
was one child born after I was, but that child died at birth, so I was the youngest in
the family of 15 children. Wilhelmina was a wonderful mother to all of the children.
August was mainly a farmer, but he was also a stone mason. He built basements and
walls out of fieldstone. He wasn't very big, but he was a very strong man. I have
wonderful memories of the families of my siblings getting together, and I never
heard any of them ever argue. My nieces and nephews were my age or older. In fact,
I have a niece who is still living and she is 95 years old (Myrtle Vollmer)."
Ray Salus tells an interesting story about the Vollmer family who lived on a farm in the vicinity
of today's Highway 94 and County Road 17 (Lake Elmo Avenue). Walter Vollmer, who has been
gone for many years, told Ray the story when he was a youngster. The infamous bank robber, Cole
Younger, had just been released from the Stillwater prison where he served time for his crime of
robbing the Northfield, Min'nesota bank. Records say this was in the summer of 1901, and Younger
was heading south, most likely home to Missouri. He stopped at the Vollmer farm, asking for a
night's lodging for himself and his horse, but didn't give his name. While there he wrote a letter to
someone, and while he was writing, one of the Vollmer children peeked over his shoulder and saw
him sign the letter, "Cole Younger." As well-known as Younger was in those days, it must have been
a frightening moment for the Vollmer family, but after the night's rest, Younger rode off without
incident.
The Friedrich family
Another large group is the Friedrich family. Louise Friedrich says that the Friedrich family came
to Minnesota in 1872, and Christian Frederick, age 29, appears in the 1875 Oakdale census along
with several other Fredericks, and Friedericks. An elderly couple, most likely Christian's parents,
Samuel and Loise Frederick, also lived in the same house. All of them are listed as coming from
Prussia, which was a separate state at that time in the northeastern part of the German Empire. All
of their last names should be spelled Friedrich, according to Al Friedrich in an interview with this
author. Actually, this is a source of irritation for Al. He says that everyone in Lake Elmo pronounces
their name as "Fredrick," but when he later moved away from the area, he was determined to have
his name pronounced the way it should be and that was Friedrich.
Al, or Alvin Anton Friedrich, was born March 7, 1923 in Lake Elmo on his parents' farm. His dad
was Anton Friedrich, and his mother was Hedwig Siegfried, who was called Hattie. Al's grandfather
was Christian Friedrich who had settled in Lake Elmo on land near what is now 31 st Street that runs
on the south side and adjacent to Highway 5, near the new round-about and the railroad viaduct
on Stillwater Road.
25
City of Lake Elmo Policy and Procedure for Naming City Parks, Trails,
Recreational Areas, and Facilities
Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to establish a standard procedure for the naming and renaming of parks,
trails, recreational areas and facilities owned and/or operated by the City of Lake Elmo. This policy
will guide name recognition and establish a uniform process. The Parks Commission shall be
responsible for providing a recommended name to the City Council. The City Council will have the
final say for the approved name.
Objectives:
• To name City parks, trails, recreational areas and facilities with the intent of enhancing
the community by provoking a sense of place.
• Ensure that parks and recreational areas are easily identified and located with names that are
consistent with the values and characteristics of the City of Lake Elmo.
• Assure the quality of the title/name, so that it will serve the purpose of the City in a
permanent manner.
• Encourage public participation and input in order to fully represent the best interest of the
community.
Criteria for Submitting a Name:
When a proposed name is presented for review, City Staff will first vet the name against the criteria
listed below. If a name does not fall into one of the categories listed below or is deemed to be
derogatory or offensive in nature, the consideration will be thrown out. It should also be known that
the City will not consider names that are directly named after a specific neighborhood or subdivision.
The Park name shall not:
• Park Names shall not be duplicated.
• The City will not name parks directly after a development.
• For example, the park within Wildflower shall not be called Wildflower Park.
However, rose park, fox glove park, etc. would be acceptable.
Categories for potential park Names:
• An outstanding feature of the area. (example: hill, river, vegetation)
• Geographical location of the park such as a street name.
• Naming after an individual (living or non-living) or organization. The City may require
additional information to further enforce that the individual has significantly contributed to
the improvement of the Lake Elmo Parks system.
• A person (living or non-living) or group who significantly contributed to the
acquisition or development of park/facilities, who provided an exceptional service
in the interest of the park system, or for the community as a whole. When naming
after a person or persons, written documentation of approval by next of kin is
required (if available/possible) as part of the proposal.
• A standard for significant contribution shall consist of providing at least 50% of the
cost to develop or acquire the land.
• The City understands there are other categories that a name could be pulled from and
would not exclude its consideration.
Procedure:
The City has created a process that will provide consistency for naming or re-naming City Parks. In
general a submission will come in, go through staff review and approval, undergo a Parks
Commission review, and end with final approval or denial from the City Council. The City would
like to encourage residents to stay interested and voice their opinions during the meetings when the
name is being considered.
Step 1) At the time that the City is ready to name or rename a park, notification will be put in
the Fresh, City Facebook, and or use other measures as appropriate. The City will
seek name suggestions from the City Council or Commissions, City residents,
Community leaders or organizations interested in proposing a name for a park, trail,
recreational area or facility. The applicant should either request a Naming Policy
form from the City Clerk or download the form from the City Website on the Parks
page. After the form has been filled out it will need to be submitted to the City
Planner to review against the criteria. Once the timeframe for receiving names has
closed, Staff will begin the review process.
Step 2) Staff will notify the applicant if the proposed name has or has not met the
requirements. After a proposed name has been approved by Staff, the applicant will
be informed when the name is going to be discussed by the Parks Commission.
After the Commission discussion, the recommendation(s) will move onto the City
Council for final approval or denial.
Step 3) Once the City Council votes to approve a name, the name of the park shall be
confirmed by passing a resolution.
Renaming:
The intent of naming is for permanent recognition, the renaming of parks and facilities is
discouraged. Though, the City understands that renaming a park, trail, or facility may be necessary to
create more cohesiveness throughout the City. It is recommended that efforts to change a name
become subject to crucial examination so as not to diminish the original justification for the name or
discount the value of the prior contributors. Renaming a park will follow the same procedure stated
above.
STAFF REPORT
DATE: July 20, 2020
ITEM #:
TO: Parks Commission
FROM: Ben Prchal, City Planner
AGENDA ITEM: Naming of Park in Easton Village
BACKGROUND:
In total, the park area in Easton Village is 1.36 acres which consists of a playground and a field for active recreation.
Until now the park has been un-named and the City is now looking to name the park. Similar to the previous parks,
the City posted a poll and notification on the City website requesting suggestions for a park name. There were many
name suggestions that came forward and Staff has done their best to organize the suggested names to assist with the
selection process.
ISSUE BEFORE CITY COUNCIL:
Which name(s) would the Park Commission like to recommend to the City Council for the park in Easton Village?
ANALYSIS:
The City received many suggestions for the park and Staff has done their best to group them into two different categories
Aviation and Miscellaneous. Staff has provided an explanation for some of the suggestions, if it was believed to provide
extra value for the Commission.
Aviation.
Staff was impressed with the names that were provided for the Aviation category and thought they were very creative. A
name from this category may be more appropriate given its location to the Airport.
Miscellaneous.
Staff does not have additional comments from the miscellaneous category.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff would consider a name from the aviation category first, considering the parks location to the airport. If one name
cannot be chosen, up to three name suggestions would be appropriate to bring to City Council.
ATTACHMENTS:
• Park Naming Policy
• Easton Village Park
Aviation Miscellaneous.
Lake Elmo Landing Pony Park
Spruce Goose Park Augusta Park
Aviator Park Village Park
Propeller Park Diversity Park
Control Tower Park Woodcrest Green
Runway Park The Neighborhood Park
Biplane Park Elmo Residence Park
Landing Pad Park
Aeroeast
Aeronaut Park
Aviation Park
Planes, Trains, and Swings
Pilot Park
Easton Village Park
City of Lake Elmo Policy and Procedure for Naming City Parks, Trails,
Recreational Areas, and Facilities
Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to establish a standard procedure for the naming and renaming of parks,
trails, recreational areas and facilities owned and/or operated by the City of Lake Elmo. This policy
will guide name recognition and establish a uniform process. The Parks Commission shall be
responsible for providing a recommended name to the City Council. The City Council will have the
final say for the approved name.
Objectives:
• To name City parks, trails, recreational areas and facilities with the intent of enhancing
the community by provoking a sense of place.
• Ensure that parks and recreational areas are easily identified and located with names that are
consistent with the values and characteristics of the City of Lake Elmo.
• Assure the quality of the title/name, so that it will serve the purpose of the City in a
permanent manner.
• Encourage public participation and input in order to fully represent the best interest of the
community.
Criteria for Submitting a Name:
When a proposed name is presented for review, City Staff will first vet the name against the criteria
listed below. If a name does not fall into one of the categories listed below or is deemed to be
derogatory or offensive in nature, the consideration will be thrown out. It should also be known that
the City will not consider names that are directly named after a specific neighborhood or subdivision.
The Park name shall not:
• Park Names shall not be duplicated.
• The City will not name parks directly after a development.
• For example, the park within Wildflower shall not be called Wildflower Park.
However, rose park, fox glove park, etc. would be acceptable.
Categories for potential park Names:
• An outstanding feature of the area. (example: hill, river, vegetation)
• Geographical location of the park such as a street name.
• Naming after an individual (living or non-living) or organization. The City may require
additional information to further enforce that the individual has significantly contributed to
the improvement of the Lake Elmo Parks system.
• A person (living or non-living) or group who significantly contributed to the
acquisition or development of park/facilities, who provided an exceptional service
in the interest of the park system, or for the community as a whole. When naming
after a person or persons, written documentation of approval by next of kin is
required (if available/possible) as part of the proposal.
• A standard for significant contribution shall consist of providing at least 50% of the
cost to develop or acquire the land.
• The City understands there are other categories that a name could be pulled from and
would not exclude its consideration.
Procedure:
The City has created a process that will provide consistency for naming or re-naming City Parks. In
general a submission will come in, go through staff review and approval, undergo a Parks
Commission review, and end with final approval or denial from the City Council. The City would
like to encourage residents to stay interested and voice their opinions during the meetings when the
name is being considered.
Step 1) At the time that the City is ready to name or rename a park, notification will be put in
the Fresh, City Facebook, and or use other measures as appropriate. The City will
seek name suggestions from the City Council or Commissions, City residents,
Community leaders or organizations interested in proposing a name for a park, trail,
recreational area or facility. The applicant should either request a Naming Policy
form from the City Clerk or download the form from the City Website on the Parks
page. After the form has been filled out it will need to be submitted to the City
Planner to review against the criteria. Once the timeframe for receiving names has
closed, Staff will begin the review process.
Step 2) Staff will notify the applicant if the proposed name has or has not met the
requirements. After a proposed name has been approved by Staff, the applicant will
be informed when the name is going to be discussed by the Parks Commission.
After the Commission discussion, the recommendation(s) will move onto the City
Council for final approval or denial.
Step 3) Once the City Council votes to approve a name, the name of the park shall be
confirmed by passing a resolution.
Renaming:
The intent of naming is for permanent recognition, the renaming of parks and facilities is
discouraged. Though, the City understands that renaming a park, trail, or facility may be necessary to
create more cohesiveness throughout the City. It is recommended that efforts to change a name
become subject to crucial examination so as not to diminish the original justification for the name or
discount the value of the prior contributors. Renaming a park will follow the same procedure stated
above.