HomeMy WebLinkAbout10.17.22 Parks Commission Full
NOTICE OF MEETING
City of Lake Elmo Parks Commission
3800 Laverne Avenue North
October 17, 2022 6:30 PM
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Approve Agenda
4. Approve Minutes
a) September 19, 2022
5. Public Comments
6. Demontreville Park Improvements
7. Tablyn Park Improvements
8. Kleis Park Improvements
9. Pebble Park Improvements
10. Ballfield Survey Results
11. Communications
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 in
Partnership with our Community.
City of Lake Elmo Parks Commission Minutes
September 19, 2022
Members Present: Commissioners Ames, Kastler, Rivera-Reyes, Bloyer, and Barrett Staff Present: Assistant Public Works Director Swanepoel and City Planner Hetzel The meeting was called to order by Ames at 6:30 PM. Approval of Agenda Kastler requested the addition of Schiltgen Preliminary Plat/PUD to the agenda. (Approved by consensus to be added to agenda.) Barrett motioned to approve the agenda as presented, Kastler provided a second; unanimously approved 5-0. Welcomed student Vito Bloyer to the Parks Commission. Approval of Minutes Rivera-Reyes motioned to approve the July 19th, 2022 Parks Commission Minutes as presented, Bloyer provided a second; Ames abstained. Motion passed 4-0. Public Comments Carol Sellner at 784 Ivywood Cir provided her perspective on the street parking situation around
Ivywood Park.
Kleis Park Site Visit City Planner Hetzel presented public comments to the commission. Assistant Director Swanepoel commented about the trail condition and answered water accessibility questions. Commission discussion on park and trail accessibility, park condition, port-a-potty requests,
ADA compliance, CIP, and park amenity utilization. Pebble Park Site Visit City Planner Hetzel provided public comments. Commission discussed security, a gate, dual
tennis/pickle ball courts, modern playground amenities, water accessibility, sand volleyball
courts, disk golf, and parking. Ivywood Park Parking City Planner Hetzel presented information regarding the parking situation at the park. There were
public comments at the October City Council meeting. Commission discussed options and cost.
Rivera-Reyes motioned to recommend not altering the current parking situation at this time, Barrett second; discussion regarding placing a curtesy sign. Unanimously approved 5-0.
Schiltgen Farmstead – Preliminary Plat/PUD (approved by consensus)
Commission revisited the agenda item from the July Parks meeting. The committee’s original motion was to accept land in lieu of cash. After the City Council meeting it was made clear that none of the open space land will be available for public use. The commission received more clarification from City Planner Hetzel. Kastler would like to rescind the previous vote. Ames is
not supportive of private trail networks, the goal is to connect neighborhoods and get
somewhere. Commission discussion continued on the best course of action. Ames motioned to recommend we rescind our approval of the Preliminary Plat for Schiltgen East pending sufficient information and detail to clarify what the outlot is to be designated for park land dedication and what the trail connectivity would be to existing Lake Elmo trails, Rivera-Reyes provided a second; discussion. Kastler friendly amends motion to include that the parks commission still recommends accepting land for parkland dedication but withdrawals the original recommendation, Ames seconded the amendment; discussion. Ames, Rivera-Reyes and Barrett aye, Kastler nay, and Bloyer abstains. Motion
passed 3-1. Communications a) Swing was removed at Kleis Park. Drainage issues corrected by Public Works staff at
Pilot and DeMontreville Parks. Seeding will start this fall at Firefly and Lions Park.
b) CIP is next month. Kastler would like to see the full Parks budget, not just the CIP.
c) Park Reservation concerns about outside groups reserving courts and residents not being
able to access volleyball courts. We should make sure we have clarity on how the process
is done by city staff, specifically for volleyball.
d) Twin Cities Outdoors mentioned Sunfish as one of the gems for hiking.
e) Stonegate trails have been moved to 2023. They are working with the residents to
construct that.
Ames adjourned the meeting at 8:05 PM Respectfully Submitted, Rebecca McGuire, Deputy Clerk
STAFF REPORT
DATE: 10/17/2022
MOTION
AGENDA ITEM: Demontreville Park
TO: Parks Commission
SUBMITTED BY: Adam Swanepoel, Assistant Public Works Director Reviewed By: Marty Powers, Public Works Director Ben Hetzel, City Planner
BACKGROUND: The City of Lake Elmo has a well-established park system with unique amenities at each park. Over the years some of these items have reached their age limit and are in need of an upgrade or replacement. In June, 2022 a survey was conducted regarding Demontreville Park and a review of the survey and park was conducted at the August, 2022 parks commission meeting. During this discussion members provided input on Demontreville Park, reviewed public comments and survey results. Members were asked to review topics regarding the playset, tennis courts, trails and baseball field. Members noted the large open space Demontreville Park provides. A number of those who completed the survey suggested an ice rink in the area due to the proximity to other rinks. This option is not supported by staff due to the lack and access to city water in the area. Currently the Demontreville Park playset is scheduled for replacement in 2024 according to the recent
CIP. Results from the parks survey conducted in June 2022, indicated 91% would like the current playset updated.
ISSUE BEFORE COMMISSION:
Would the Parks Commission like to see the Demontreville Park playset updated or removed? FINANCIAL IMPACT: Fiscal impacts are outlined in the 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) CIP items are funded though the Parks Dedication Fund while Operations and Maintenance items are funded through the Public Works Budget. Members can expect the replacement cost of a playset to be approximately $125,000. RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the following motion: “Move to recommend future replacement of the playset as scheduled in the CIP.”
STAFF REPORT
DATE: 10/17/2022
DISCUSSION
AGENDA ITEM: Tablyn Park
TO: Parks Commission
SUBMITTED BY: Adam Swanepoel, Assistant Public Works Director Reviewed By: Marty Powers, Public Works Director Ben Hetzel, City Planner
BACKGROUND: The City of Lake Elmo has a well-established park system with unique amenities at each park. Over the years some of these items have reached their age limit and are in need of an upgrade or replacement. In June, 2022 a survey was conducted regarding Tablyn Park and a review of the survey and park was conducted at the August, 2022 parks commission meeting. During this discussion members provided input on Tablyn Park, reviewed public comments and survey results. Members were asked to review topics regarding the playset, tennis courts, trails and baseball field. Several comments noted in the survey noted additional parking or larger parking lot. The parks has a great sliding hill in the winter and causes a number of vehicles to park outside the park in order to utilize the hill. As the park sits, parking is limited to the current area unless removal of landscaping and the trees to the north of the existing lot. Removal of these items could extend the parking lot, adding an additional 10 stalls
Results from the parks survey conducted in June 22, indicated 57% would like to see the tennis courts refurbished as a combination of tennis and pickle ball courts. 61% would like to see the basketball court
refurbished and 94% would like to see the playset updated. Currently the CIP has Tablyn Park scheduled to have is courts resurfaced in 2023 and its playset replaced in 2024. ISSUE BEFORE COMMISSION: Would the Parks Commission like to see the Tablyn Park tennis Courts refurbished to include pickle ball? Would the Parks Commission like to see the Tablyn Park basketball court refurbished? Would the Parks Commission like to see the Tablyn Park playset updated? Would the Parks Commission like to see the rebound wall replaced?
FINANCIAL IMPACT: Fiscal impacts are outlined in the 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) CIP items are funded though the Parks Dedication Fund while Operations and Maintenance items are funded through the Public Works
Budget. Replacement of an asphalt tennis court and basketball court is approximately $85,000. Surfacing
Page 2
and lining of the tennis courts would be $16,000. Members can expect the replacement cost of a playset to
be approximately $125,000. Replacement of the rebound wall would cost $2000 and the additional parking area is estimated around $90,000
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following motion: “Move to recommend future replacement of the playset as scheduled in the CIP, refurbish tennis
court to include pickle ball courts, refurbish the current basketball court, replace the rebound wall and add additional parking.”
STAFF REPORT
DATE: 10/17/22
Motion
AGENDA ITEM: Pebble Park
TO: Parks Commission
SUBMITTED BY: Adam Swanepoel, Assistant Public Works Director Reviewed By: Marty Powers, Public Works Director Ben Hetzel, City Planner
BACKGROUND: The City of Lake Elmo has a well-established park system with unique amenities at each park. Over the years some of these items have reached their age limit and are in need of an upgrade or replacement. In June, 2022 a survey was conducted regarding Pebble Park and a review of the survey and park was conducted at the August, 2022 parks commission meeting. During this discussion members provided input on Pebble Park, reviewed public comments and survey results. Discussion regarding Pebble Park noted its large useable area with great walking trails, ideal parking and great amenities. The downfall from the review noted the lack of security and inappropriate use of the park and deteriorating playset. Adding too many park futures could cause a future issue such as parking. Staff suggested strategically placing specialized park items throughout the city in zones. Due to its large parking and lighted area, members suggested this an ideal location for multiple pickle ball courts. 56% of those surveyed in June would like to see the tennis courts refurbished with a combination of pickle ball and tennis courts.
Members were in favor of a future replacement to the playground. Survey results from June show 97% of those surveyed would like to see the playground updated.
Converting the current half basketball court to a full basketball court was discussed. Current issues with the basketball court now are the deteriorating court as well as the drainage issues where it lies. Keeping the court as a half would minimize the amount of fill and construction needed upkeep the court as well as continuing to have it serve as a multi-use court with a rebounding wall. Currently Pebble Park playset is scheduled in the CIP to be replaced in 2024 while the Pebble Park Courts are scheduled in 2023. ISSUE BEFORE COMMISSION: Would the Parks Commission like to see the Pebble Park playset updated or removed?
Would the Parks Commission like to see the Pebble Park tennis courts refurbished, modified for pickle ball?
Page 2
Would the Parks Commission like to see the basketball court at Pebble Park refurbished or updated to a full
court? Would the Parks Commission like to see the rebound wall refurbished or removed?
FISCAL IMPACT: Fiscal impacts are outlined in the 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). CIP items are funded though the Parks Dedication Fund while Operations and Maintenance items are funded through the Public Works Budget. Members can expect the replacement cost of a playset to be approximately $125,000. Removal and install of new asphalt for both tennis and current basketball court: $100,000. Resurfacing to include both pickle ball and tennis lines $24,000. Replacement of the rebound wall would cost $2000. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following motion: “Move to recommend future replacement of the playset as scheduled in the CIP, refurbishing the current tennis court to include both pickle ball and tennis, refurbish the basketball court to remain half size
and refurbish the rebound wall.”
STAFF REPORT
DATE: 10/17/2022
MOTION
AGENDA ITEM: Klies Park
TO: Parks Commission
SUBMITTED BY: Adam Swanepoel, Assistant Public Works Director Reviewed By: Marty Powers, Public Works Director Ben Hetzel, City Planner
BACKGROUND: The City of Lake Elmo has a well-established park system with unique amenities at each park. Over the years some of these items have reached their age limit and are in need of an upgrade or replacement. In June, 2022 a survey was conducted regarding Klies Park and a review of the survey and park was conducted at the August, 2022 parks commission meeting. During this discussion members provided input on Klies Park, reviewed public comments and survey results. Members were asked to review topics regarding the playset, swing, trails and baseball field. During discussion, members of the commission recommended seeking other options for a disk golf location. Members noted the lack of space and challenge Klies Park would provide for the sport and its users. Members were in favor of future replacement to the playground as well as the swing. Survey results also showed 91% of respondents would like to see the playground replaced.
Members heard a number of comments regarding the baseball field at Klies Park and its lack of use. Survey results showed 85% of respondents would like to see the baseball field stay.
Currently Klies Park is scheduled for playset replacement in 2026.
ISSUE BEFORE COMMISSION: Would the Parks Commission like to recommend future replacement of the playset? Would the Parks Commission like to replace the swing that was recently removed due to safety concerns in 2023? Would the Parks Commission like to see the ballfield at Klies Park removed? FISCAL IMPACT: Fiscal impacts are outlined in the 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). CIP items are funded though the Parks Dedication Fund while Operations and Maintenance items are funded through the Public Works
Budget. Members can expect the replacement cost of a playset to be approximately $125,000. Installing a new swing could cost $2500 - $5000. Installing a concrete boarder for the swing would cost $14,000 and adding safety chips would be an additional $500.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following motion:
Page 2
“Move to recommend future replacement of the playset as scheduled in the CIP, replace park swing
in 2023 and keep the baseball field.”
1
STAFF REPORT DATE: 10/17/22 DISCUSSION
TO: Parks Commission
FROM: Ben Hetzel, City Planner
REVIEWED BY: Marty Powers, Director of Public Works
Adam Swanepoel, Assistant Director of Public Works
AGENDA ITEM: Ballfield Survey Results
BACKGROUND: Lake Elmo has seen a decrease in competitive ballfields in recent years while the interest in baseball and softball has increased along with the City of Lake Elmo’s population. Recognizing a possible need for
more ballfields, City Council had directed staff to add an item to the 2022 Parks Commission Work Plan to determine the appropriate need for ballfields in Lake Elmo. Staff distributed a 30 day online ballfield survey that was designed as part of the analysis for the 2022 ballfield work plan item. Staff felt it was important to understand how the residents of Lake Elmo view the possibility of more ballfields in the City. The purpose of this report is to relay the results of the survey to the Parks Commission and provide recommendations on how to move forward. PROPOSAL/DETAILS ANALYSIS: The ballfield survey consisted of six multiple choice questions and a space for general comments. Questions focused on whether residents would like to see more ballfields in Lake Elmo City parks and the
category of fields they would like to see. In addition, staff wanted to know how residents felt about upgrading existing ballfields in current parks. Staff also provided general information in the form of ballfield type definitions, ballfield dimensions, current ballfield quantities, what ages are associated with
each size, and participation numbers. It is important to distinguish between the different types of ballfields and identify was sizes are most appropriate for each age group when determining the appropriate need for more ballfields. The general information provided in the survey is shown below.
Definitions Recreational Ballfield - ballfields with an infield and backstop only. Lake Elmo parks currently have 8 of these ballfields in City parks. These parks include Stonegate Park, Pebble Park, Kleis Park, Demontreville Park, Tana Ridge Park, Reid Park, Ridge Park, and Tablyn Park. Competitive Ballfield - ballfields that are able to support a sanctioned or otherwise organized game and include an infield, backstop, and perimeter fencing. Lake Elmo parks currently has 2 of these in City parks. The parks include VFW Park and Lions Park.
Town Ballfield – ballfield designed for amateur baseball where the teams represent a given city or town, or a commercial enterprise which sponsors the team. A town ball field may include a concession stand, bathrooms, permanent seating, overhead lighting, and an announcing booth.
Ballfield Dimensions Ages 9-11: 220 feet left field, 240 feet center field, 220 feet right field (Lions Park) Ages 12-13: 260 feet left field, 280 feet center field, 260 feet right field Ages 14-15: 290 feet left field, 330 feet center field, 290 feet right field (VFW Park) Town Ballfield: 325 feet left field, 375 feet center field, 325 feet right field
2
2022 Lake Elmo Baseball Association Teams by Age Group Ages 9-11: 8 teams Ages 12-13: 4 teams Ages 14-15: 5 teams 210 Total Players Survey Results According to survey results, approximately 1500 people viewed the survey while 313 people answered each of the six multiple choice questions. Results of the survey show that a majority of residents would like to see more competitive ballfields at City parks. Below are the results of each question as well as staff comments for each. Would you like to see more ballfields at City parks? Yes 88% No 12% The increasing population and loss of multiple ballfields are the likely components contributing to these
results. Would you like to see more recreational or competitive ballfields.
Recreational 2% Competitive 54% Both 36%
None 7% There are only two competitive ballfields in Lake Elmo parks, VFW Park and Lions Park. Each ballfield is reserved on a regular basis and forces Lake Elmo associated teams to use Stillwater High School
ballfields. What size fields would you like to see? Sized for ages 9-11 21% Sized for ages 12-13 24% Sized for ages 14-15 55% VFW Park is the only ballfield sized appropriately for ages 14-15. While Lions Park is sized for ages 9-11.
Would you like to see a town ballfield in Lake Elmo? Yes 86% No 14%
A group of individuals attended a recent City Council meeting and requested that the City look into adding a town ballfield. City Council directed staff to research what it would take to bring a town ballfield to Lake Elmo and report back at the October 11, 2022 City Council Workshop. After presenting findings at the
workshop, the City Council decided to not dedicate anymore staff time to a town ballfield at this time. Would you like to see existing recreational ballfields upgraded to competitive ballfields? Yes 84% No 16% There are currently only two competitive ballfields at existing City parks. Some recreational ballfields may
not see enough use in its current state. It may be more financially feasible to upgrade some recreational ballfields to competitive fields rather than starting from scratch. This could be an opportunity to increase the number of park users at existing City parks. Would you prefer to see multiple ballfields in one location?
Yes 82% No 18%
3
Multiple ballfields in one location would give the opportunity to hold tournaments. Many Cities have
multiple ballfields in one park. Perhaps Lake Elmo has a current park that has enough space to have multiple ballfields.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS 1. What amenities what constitute an upgrade? 2. Should ballfields be designed for multipurpose use such as baseball and softball?
3. Utilizing existing park space means the City is not losing out on park dedication funds for accepting additional land instead of cash.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff is looking for direction from the Parks Commission to explore upgrading some existing recreational ballfields to competitive ballfields at City parks. “Move to direct City staff to explore the possibility of upgrading existing recreational ballfields in City Parks.” ATTACHMENT: 1. Ballfield Survey Results
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 1/12
Lake Elmo Ballfields
Survey Results
FINAL
10/07/2022
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 2/12
Would you like to see more ballfields at City parks?
Yes 88% (275)
No 12% (38)
Would you like to see more recreational or competitive
ballfields in the City?
Recreational 2% (7)
Competitive 54% (170)
Both 36% (113)
None 7% (23)
What size fields would you like to see?
Sized for ages 9-11 21% (65)
Sized for ages 12-13 24% (76)
Sized for ages 14-15 55% (172)
Would you like to see a Town Ballfield in Lake Elmo?
Yes 86% (269)
No 14% (44)
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 3/12
Would you like to see some existing recreational ballfields
upgraded to competitive ballfields?
Yes 84% (264)
No 16% (49)
Would you prefer to see multiple ballfields in one
location?
Yes 82% (257)
No 18% (56)
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 4/12
Do you have any additional comments and/or suggestions
related to ballfields in Lake Elmo?
Far to many kids playing baseball in lake Elmo and far to much land to not
have more baseball fields
Lake Elmo is a great town with great ball. Not even Stillwater has a town
ball field. Our youth enjoy baseball, going to tournaments. Would be
awesome to have a venue or venues to host tourneys or town ball games.
lets put a fundraiser together to make Lake Elmo a destination for "Small
Town Baseball"! The VFW field wouldn't take much to make it a fantastic
field. Id bet their are volunteers out for grading/sodding, irrigation.
We desperately need a competitive so ball complex with multiple fields in
the Stillwater area. It will bring tournament revenues to the City and
surrounding area.
Lake Elmo youth baseball has developed into one of the powerhouse
programs in the state - it is a pipeline to the stillwater high school program
which has one multiple state championships in the last several years. The
Lake Elmo Lions has had this success despite having one of the worst field
situations around the twin cities. Upgrade the field situation and give the
teams and town something to be proud of.
New developments should have a mandatory green space build
requirement of either Lacrosse/soccer/football or baseball/so ball fields or
both if size is large enough. Developers will be compensated (in part) by
higher lot prices due to attractive amenities.
A ball field complex would be a wonderful addition to the area in order to
draw large tournaments and teams!! Even just a complex with 4-6 fields am
that would be able to accommodate all ages of players at some point
would be a huge win for the area
The City has long ignored the importance upgrading and maintaining sport
fields in the community. Now comparing with other local communities we
are way behind. With the growth of our City adding a sport complex to
Lake Elmo is much needed.
I really think the city should invest in creating two different four Plex
baseball complexes. I think it be perfect near the Oakdale target a.k.a. the
Public Works area. If we were able to build for Fields for ages 11 and under
and another for Fields for the next age group we could host tournaments.
That could drive a lot of revenue and visitor activity to the lake Elmo area.
Given the competitive nature of our teams I think it be a very wise
investment. Look what it has done to Woodbury with their complex.
Either turn on sprinklers or bring in water trucks. Kids are getting hurt
because fields are in such bad shape
Lake Elmo has a great baseball program. It would be nice to see the city
get behind it
more fields at all levels helps facilitate youth league play and minimize
smartphone time
Lake Elmo baseball is a great organization that continues to grow every
year. The organization lost the use of the Tartan Park fields a few years ago
and that has caused the field shortage issue. Our growing community
needs more ball fields.
Lake Elmo baseball is a keeper. It a source of community pride and draws
thousands of visitors to Lions and VFW each Summer. With better facilities,
we'd have the opportunity to let more kids participate each year and would
also have the capacity to host tournaments.
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 5/12
There have been a lot of new developments built in Lake Elmo. Why are you
approving these developments without ball fields put in them.? If you were
smart you would get the developers to pay for it. Only approve new
developments with baseball fields in them. Or they have to donate a partial
of land for baseball fields in order to get development approved. This is
what other cities do. We need baseball fields in Lake Elmo badly.
It’s time for Lake Elmo to build more fields and upgrade existing fields!!!!
Lake Elmo has a great youth baseball tradition. Since we got involved a few
years ago, I can't tell you how many people have commented on the strong
baseball program. It is also a great way to let other people who don't live
near Lake Elmo know about and experience the Lake Elmo community.
Additional competitive ballfields would be a great addition. They are much
needed.
As our community grows it is important to offer the amenities that people
are looking for such as places to play. Lake Elmo Baseball has established
a great tradition over the past decade and many other communities are
wondering how they can get to the competitive level of Lake Elmo baseball.
In order to be in that upper echelon, we need to upgrade our facilities and
number of fields.
Having a baseball complex with a wheel of four field - two 9-11 and two 12-
13 plus one additional 13+ field all able to handle competitive games would
be ideal. With this setup LE Baseball would have the space needed to
handle the number of teams that are created and it would allow LE to host
tournaments and generate income to help maintain the fields.
Would like to see another field comparable to Lions Park. Having a complex
with four fields like other towns would provide opportunity to grow the
game, hold tournaments and bring in additional revenue for area.
With the number of teams that we have playing in the Lake Elmo baseball
association, we need to have at least 1 additional competitive field for
game play, but just as important, we need to add practice fields as well for
teams that are not playing games. Having all the fields in one location
would also allow the ability to host tournaments as well.
Put irrigation in at VFW. It’s embarrassing and dangerous.
Lake Elmo has a very successful baseball organization based on results for
state tournaments year in and year out. We need fields that are on par with
the quality of our teams. Numerous other towns have these types of
facilities. Our LE teams can’t even host larger tournaments because we
have one competitive field for each age group.
The VFW field needs to be completely renovated. Other communities this
size have at least 2-3 fields.
I think we need fields at all levels. A townball field would be a huge
attraction also. They don't necessarily have to be in the same location.
Multiple fields in one location will allow for flexibility to host small
tournaments
Would love for the city to use some of their precocious water to keep the
fields from being a dust bowl and hard as a rock. The political decisions
made over water are absolutely ridiculous. Turf the field if you are going to
pretend to be such conservationists.
As long as the numbers support it and the fields would be used, I can get
behind this idea.
Competitive fields, especially a multi-field complex, should also include
bathrooms and an some should also include an option for concession
stands, so the association could host tournaments.
Lake Elmo produces a state-caliber baseball program at every level up
through Stillwater High School - almost every competing program has
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 6/12
better facilities than what Lake Elmo has, and it wouldn't take much to
close that gap
The current competitive fields should have some form of irrigation. In June
the fields get really hard and are dangerous for the boys to play on.
Looking forward to see what Lake Elmo comes up with to meet the
increased amount of kids playing baseball and or so ball each year.
Add bathrooms not porta potties
Need more ballfields in Lake Elmo.
Vfw field needs much higher fencing on the 3rd baseline to beep balls out
of the corn field. Also, more parking and better bathrooms.
It would be ideal to have multiple fields to be able to hold tournaments to
generate revenue for both the city and baseball programs. Bring in more
groups to the community through local businesses like restaurants, etc.
Running water would be nice. VFW field has a water fountain that hasn’t
been operational for the last 2 summers at least.
If cost is a concern having multiple ballfields in one area would make Lake
Elmo a great location to host tournaments. Per team costs to enter the
tournaments are usually between $400 and $500, plus there may be a
$100-$150 gate fee. I selected fields sized for ages 14-15 because they could
also be used by adult so ball leagues, etc., and because only one selection
was allowed, but a field similar to Lions Park sized for ages 12-13 is
currently a gap. Similarly, a Town Ballfield would be amazing and provide
an opportunity for families to go to a live, organized adult game without
having to break the bank to see it.
Significant revenue can be generated for the city and association if
adequate facilities are available. The current ballfield shortage in the Lake
Elmo community is a significant problem and one that can be addressed
with available resources and proper investment.
The current use of the ball fields is driven by the Lake Elmo Baseball
Teams, yet their teams are full of players NOT from Lake Elmo. We do not
need more fields, we need less outside teams using the fields we have. A
baseball field takes up a large section of space that could be used year
round of it isn’t limited to a baseball field. If we are going to build a field,
then maybe we add two and leave it at that, but to build fields that will be
used up by private businesses who are filled with players not from Lake
Elmo is not being a good steward of Lake Elmo citizen’s taxes.
Multi field complex would be nice to allow Lake Elmo baseball host (larger)
youth tournaments
Is is possible to get sponsorship boards at the VFW field like there is at
Lions? I dont know how much revenue this brings in, but would guess their
are many companies (given Lake Elmos growth) who would be willing to
pay for that. Plus it looks cool :)
Ball fields help develop our youth both on and of the field. Plus nice fields
generate traffic for local business thru out the week thur events and
tournaments.
The improvements made at the Oakridge church field were fantastic. I
heard other coaches commenting on how nice it is there. Keep up the good
work/improvements.
My son plays for Lake Elmo baseball and although our fields have great
character they are far inferior to those of the other cities we play. Nice
plush grass, parking, water, etc...Also think the idea of a town ball field
would be fantastic. Stillwater area definetly has the ball players to support
its use.
With the anticipated growth of the City of Lake Elmo there will be additional
stress on ball fields in the coming years. The time is now to be proactive in
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 7/12
creating more fields for multiple age levels. With additional competitive
Fields you will see the number of youth baseball players in Lake Elmo grow!
Fields are the main constraint at this point. The addition of competitive
fields will be very important as there are a substantial number of
recreational Fields already available. Converting recreational to competitive
should be an option that is greatly considered. A town ball field would be a
great community gathering place for not only players but parents and
grandparents alike. Let's be proactive instead of reactive, the time to act is
now. Thank you!
I feel this is long overdue
Please remodel or rebuild the restroom and concession stand for the Lake
Elmo baseball field. The facility is unacceptable as it is and creates a poor
image of Lake Elmo for visiting teams and their families.
I think recognizing the value that competitive ball brings to Lake Elmo is
crucial with making these decisions. It brings a lot of people into the town
and supports the local businesses too.
Fields will get used and/or able to be rented to other communities/schools -
especially private/charter schools that need fields
Important for the community and gives these kids a place to play, stay out
of trouble and be proud of there teams and town.
Make Reid Park into a more competitive Baseball field
We need to have several more competitive fields for the 9 - 13 age range
and upgrades at our fields for 14 - 15 ages. If the city is going to have
competitive fields, then there must be a commitment from the city and
associations (Lake Elmo Baseball and Stillwater Baseball) to keep them in
great playing shape all season long. This means watering, mowing and
keeping the infields dragged. While town ball is a neat idea and does seem
fitting for a community like Lake Elmo, unless there is a significant amount
of money from the private sector, I'd rather see tax dollars go to more
competitive fields in our city that have good access, a proper amount of
parking, and surrounding amenities for spectators. If town ball is truly a
regional draw, then the funding must be regional as well.
As a community we are lacking in both numbers an quality of competitive
ball fields compared to other cities in the metro area. With such a great
program and lots of kids playing competitive baseball, it is almost
embarrassing at our current field situation!
It would be nice to upgrade the existing fields so that they are more
useable for both practice and maybe a tournament.
On question #3, I believe it is not just one answer. You are able to set up
ballfield to accommodate multiple age groups. I think you need more age
12-15 fields.
city staff needs to do a better job at maintaining city ballfields on a regular
basis (reid park for example) unplayable at times to practice.
Given the number of kids on the teams for Lake Elmo in comparison to
other suburbs, the popularity of baseball here is strong and growing with
the expanding population - please plan ahead now to be prepared to
support continued growth of baseball in Lake Elmo!
Perfect location for a well maintained town ball field. Lake Elmo in known
for their small town baseball program. We need more and better fields to
keep that tradition going.
I would love to see a place where we would be able to hold tournaments
for traveling teams. The field size is important. I believe that the 12-13 year
old dimensions are the best (with grass infields!!!). It is very easy to adapt
those fields for the 9-11's, and the 14/15's enjoy playing on a field where they
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 8/12
can reach the fence. I believe that visiting teams also enjoy playing in a
smaller park when they are older.
Years ago when I was on the parks commission I tried to get support for a
ball complex but couldn't get support or funding.
I would rather see a large multipurpose complex that could accommodate
soccer, baseball, other
I would like to see Tablyn and Pebble parks have usable fields for
recreation and competition
I would like to see multi purpose fields where soccer, LaCrosse, baseball,
so ball, football could be played. Why is it just about baseball what about
all the other sports that kids play???
The town has enough ballfields
My husband and I love this idea. Get some other cities into our town. But
one serious thought. I don’t know the history But why doesn’t Lake Elmo
have more restaurants?!? Make sure these fields have a place for food
trucks too!
A ball field (s) that can handle tournaments. That we’ll do sessions next
have nice bathrooms.
more ballfields more cost to the us the tax payer
We have plenty of ball fields. Let’s get more tennis courts put in and
encourage tennis play.
If townball happens, I would gladly throw my name in as ballpark
announcer. University of Minnesota Journalism and Media Studies graduate
with television reporting experience.
What would it take to get a town Ball team. (Miesville, Hampton)
Please don’t spend my tax dollars on ball fields, we have plenty.
Cricket field please
There may be opportunities to partner with private schools on a Town Ball
field for additional funding
A townball field would be awesome! Great way to bring community
together, support local businesses and also great opportunities for high
school (or anyone, really) summer jobs etc…
Have a real running water bathroom too
Ballfields for both boys and girls - baseball and so ball is important
Upgrade or get rid of the useless recreational ball fields to usable ball
fields with fencing, grass fields, warning tracks and lights to accommodate
the rapidly increasing population in the city. Lake Elmo has a long history of
quality baseball and we need to keep that tradition going with quality
facilities for our kids to safely play.
I’ve asked for the last 25 years, why we can’t have a TownBall field like
some of the other communities. This would be a great thing for the
community
TownBall field would be a great way to bring the community together!
A Townball field sounds like a great idea! Something to bring the
community together!
A town ball field would be a great addition th the community.
A town ballfield would bring together the community more than any other
recreational or youth ball fields.
Don't limit this to boys and baseball. Include fast pitch fields for girls, or at
the very least one field that can convert to either baseball or so ball.
SAHS area is in such need for more fields. We as a community are so far
behind the surrounding areas for fields and parks
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 9/12
Would be a wonderful idea to have a sports complex with baseball &
soccer fields near lion's Park. Is the city looking into purchasing the old
lumber yard that's up for sale
Having a town ball field for a town ball team would be great for the
community because more people will be going to see those games and it
gives more people an opportunity to play baseball during the summer
when they are back from college. Town ball is also really fun and exciting to
watch.
More town hall fields would bring together the community.
A town ball field would be very beneficial for the community in the
Stillwater/Lake Elmo area. The Stillwater amateur team just made a state
tournament appearance for the first time in a long time and having a town
ball field where many fans can gather to support would be a huge benefit
for the team. We have a very committed manager who is dedicated to
putting out a competitive lineup every game. A nice ball field where
community members would be a great source of entertainment. It would
benefit the team as well as community members.
A town ball field would be so amazing for the city!
An additional town ball field would make it much easier to hold more town
ball games so we don’t have to play on the stillwater junior varsity field. We
also wouldn’t have to wait for other teams to be done before we play our
games.
The city with its growth should invest in a SportsPlex
We need a Loggers Stadium
You are probably the only town in the metro area that does not have a
baseball complex. With all the housing going in Just where do you think all
these kids are going to play so ball and baseball. You should have built
something 10 years ago. Get this thing built!!!!!!
A town ball stadium would bring the community together
Anything to get more engagement in the town
A town ball field would provide a great community field and could benefit
the surrounding businesses.
No
Really think a town ball field would be very beneficial, plus they are pretty
good.
A town ball field would be awesome for the town and bring the community
together
Ballfields for all three age groups should be added.
It would be great town gathering activity like baseball town all has proven
to be
No fast pitch so ball fields? Please remember that girls are half of our
youth.
A larger group of ball fields would be great for local so ball leagues and
tournaments as well
Team, we need to make an investment for our children and our community.
An upgrade to competitive or townball fields would be a great attraction for
the city. Recreational ball fields do not get used for the amount of area they
take up. Kids play at competitive ball fields and the money should be used
for those
I think lake Elmo would be a great area to have a competitive ball park!
With all of the land being developed in the area it would be great to see
something besides houses being built and would give the community
something to be proud of.
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 10/12
Please leave the area as a wild natural area. Many animals reside there and
people like that about the Lake Elmo. Baseball and other traditional sports
are losing popularity among younger people in favor of other things.
Let’s not develop every last square inch. This is not a community priority
and would be an incredibly disappointing use of taxpayer money, not to
mention habitat destruction.
Townball is starting to grow and building a field for the team would grow
the attraction here in the Stillwater Area
Competitive ball fields will bring the community together to enjoy the sport,
and could bring money to lake elmo with concessions, etc.
Please listen to water supply information within the new Lake Elmo area
before we get too excited. I’m all about this, but there are serious murmurs
about water supply and the population increase. It could all be nonsense,
but responsibility is an important idea.
We need more!! A lot more for every age to support the growth of the
community.
We need a Townball Field in the St. Croix Valley.
It would be helpful to understand the need in order to understand what
improvements/additions are needed! I'm not aware of much excess
demand, hence my answers are broadly that existing ballfield infrastructure
is sufficient. It'd also be great to know if adding ballfields would be a way to
improve equity and access to recreation opportunities - particularly for low-
income residents or residents who identify as a person of color. If so, or if
bridging equity gaps is explicitly addressed in making changes to ballfield
infrastructure, I would be broadly supportive!
A town ball field would be the perfect community builder for Lake Elmo. We
would be more involved than river falls.
A town ball field is long overdue in this area. Baseball is big in Stillwater
and would be embraced by the community
A Stillwater loggers toen all field will build a better community in lake elmo
Multiple would be better as it allows the city to host a tournament and drive
revenue into the local area instead of now there is not that demand and the
facilities to be quite honest are starting to look raggity little by little.
I think the town needs a stadium field. This is the kind of field that has the
biggest positive financial impact on the community. It also becomes an
identity.
A town team field is what has been missing in lake Elmo for so many years
It would be nice to have a ball field in cimarron again. The residents
association offered to set one up again for free but the manager turned it
down saying it would be a liability. There used to be a nice field here 10
years ago and prior but they stopped taking care of it and then tore it out
and reaced it now with a dog park that is never used.
Invest more in our parks and Lake Elmo organizations!
Need more signs at parks stating to cleanup a er your teams and even
security ones saying video recording in progress to deter would be criminal
activity. Adult So ball should not be played on kids fields as they leave
behind alcohol, cigarettes, chewing tobacco and throw it all on ground.
Broken glass almost at every field. There needs to be separation of age
groups to let them keep their own fields clean.
Na
Bathrooms!
Our money would be best spent elsewhere.
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 11/12
The fields that are at VFW and Lions parks should be a center piece of the
downtown area. Could almost be like a smaller version of the field of
dreams in Iowa. Also, make sure to to put irrigation on any of the
competitive fields new or existing!!!
Townball would provide a fantastic gathering opportunity and would
provide a sense of community
Townhall would be my main focus also it won't let me pick all age groups
but that would be my preference
Why are you only focusing on questions about baseball and not including
so ball?
Town all in Lake Elmo would be amazing & form a sense of community!
Town ball would be a great addition to the city of Lake Elmo! I grew up
watching baseball at town ball fields and they are some of my best
memories as a child! It also created additional opportunities for local kids,
the community and brought people together. I still have family that play on
these teams- these type of fields hold the type of teams that span several
ages- youth through adults. Such great times.
What is your gender?
Woman 37% (112)
Man 62% (188)
Identify in another way 2% (5)
10/7/22, 6:48 AM Polco
https://polco.us/n/admin/content/aca27c5c-f0a3-4075-9378-03dedeb61b42/report 12/12
In which category is your age?
18-24 years 11% (33)
25-34 years 5% (15)
35-44 years 38% (117)
45-54 years 34% (105)
55-64 years 9% (29)
65-74 years 2% (6)
75 years or older 0% (1)