HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/22/96 Agenda & Packet • CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
PARRS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
AGENDA
Thursday, February 22 , 1996
City Hall, Conf. C
6: 30 p.m.
)41 CALL
CALL TO ORDER
✓2 . ROLL CALL
4 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
REVIEW LETTER INVITING RESIDENT IDEAS REGARDING WOODCREST
PARK.
OLD HWY 8 RECONSTRUCTION INFORMATION MEETING
BEL RAE UPDATE
ICE ARENA UPDATE
ARDAN PARK UPDATE - NEWS FROM RAMSEY COUNTY
14( PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE UPDATE
7
70. INFORMATION TO REVIEW FOR NEXT MEETING:
'COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS REPORT
i ANNUAL REPORT
lll. ADJOURNMENT
MT OF
• Phone: (612) 784-3055
[E UU Fax: (612) 784-3462
"Quite Simply the Best"
February 13 , 1996
Dear Parks and Recreation Commissioners:
The next Parks and Recreation Commission meeting falls on the
same date that the informational meeting is being held regarding
Old Highway 8 redevelopment. This is an important issue for us
too because we hope to advocate for an off-street trail along Old
Highway 8 connecting to the New Brighton walkway and also
accessing Long Lake Regional Park. In addition, an off-street
trailway will provide a safe walking/bicycling path for people
living in Townsedge Terrace to access such destinations as
Edgewood School, Long Lake Road sidewalk, the library, pedestrian
bridge, etc.
So, I wish to suggest that we meet at 6: 30 p.m. to do what we
• must do and then join in on the informational meeting to advocate
for the off-street trail. After the meeting we can perhaps meet
again shortly if necessary to finish up business.
The next meeting then is Thursday, February 22 , 1996 at 6: 30 p.m.
We will begin in Conference Room C and then join the road
construction public information meeting at 7 : 00p.m. in the
Council Chambers.
If you are unable to attend the meeting please call me at 784-
0618 . Your presence will be important at the meeting.
,
Sincerely,
' Ma i,(/1, - .-
Mary Sion Director
Parks, Recreation & Forestry
411
1PsoviniKi 2401 Highway 10 • Mounds View, MN 55112-1499 e
o°'" "E°Pape,
Equal Opportunity Employer
• MOUNDS VIEW PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RAMSEY COUNTY
MINUTES
Thursday, January 25, 1996
6: 30 p.m. , City Hall
CALL TO
ORDER: Chairperson Burmeister called the meeting to
order.
ROLL CALL: Members present included Chair Burmeister,
Commissioners Silvis, Starr, Stevenson and Long.
Commissioner Dentz was absent due to coaching a
basketball game. Councilmember Trude was present
along with staff members Forester Wriskey and
Director Saarion.
MINUTES : Commissioner Silvis made a motion seconded by
Commissioner Stevenson to approve the December 7,
1995 minutes. Motion passed unanimously.
FORESTRY
REPORT: Forester Wriskey played a video which explained
the new vibratory plow procedure that hopes to
save diseased oak trees from infecting other
nearby trees. Rick also explained the ice damage
brush and branch pick-up program. Brochures and
information material was distributed regarding elm
and oak disease as well as other diseases of
trees, and damage due to drought and bark
injuries. Rick informed the Commission of the past
year' s statistics of trees planted and trees
removed. He shared with them the grants which
were received in 1994-95 for replacing diseased
boulevard trees.
BEL RAE
FOR SALE: Director Saarion shared information regarding the
sale of the Bel Rae and the possible purchase by
the City for a Community Center. City
Councilmember Trude asked for the Commissioners '
opinions regarding the project. Commissioners
were very excited about the possibilities of
services for the community - located at the Bel
• Rae.
Commissioner Silvis made a motion, seconded by
Commissioner Long to recommend that the City
• Council investigate the acquisition and upgrade of
the Bel Rae as a City-owned and operated community
center facility and to form a task force to
investigate the uses, upgrades and operating costs
of the community center. Motion passed
unanimously.
ICE ARENA
COOPERATIVE: Director Saarion reviewed information that the
City has received regarding the Ice Arena
Coalition being presented by the Minnesota Amateur
Sports Commission. Commissioner Long made a
motion recommending that the City Council continue
to look into the feasibility of the Ice Arena
Coalition. Motion was seconded by Commissioner
Silvis. Motion passed unanimously.
1996 GOALS: Director Saarion prepared a 1996 Parks and
Recreation Commission workplan that was discussed
at the December 1995 meeting. The Commission
agreed that this workplan was appropriate and
would be presented to the City Council during a
future work session.
HWY 8 OFF
• STREET TRAIL: Director Saarion reported that Ramsey County will
be reconstruction Old Highway 8 and requested City
input on the reconstruction. If the Commission .
wishes to advocate for an off-street trailway
along Old Highway 8 this is the time to speak.
The County staff will present the project to the
City Council January 22 . Commissioners were
invited to attend the meeting.
WINTER
PROGRAM
REVIEW: Director Saarion reported on several recreation
programs and rink activities and answered any
questions of the Commission.
ADJOURNMENT: Commissioner Silvis made a motion seconded by
Commissioner Long to adjourn the meeting. Motion
passed unanimously.
• MEMO TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONERS
FROM: MARY SAARION
DATE: FEBRUARY 13 , 1996
SUBJECT: UPDATE REGARDING THE SALE OF THE BEL RAE
The Economic Development Authority adopted a resolution Monday,
February 12 , 1996 to put earnest money down on the purchase of
the Bel Rae. An appraisal is being conducted on the property and
building. In addition, other information is being gathered. The
proposed purchase of the Bel Rae continues to move forward at
this time. The School District and City have and continue to
discuss options for monetary contribution to the facility.
I have submitted a Community Development Block grant to Ramsey
County for the purchase of teen center equipment should the
building indeed become a Community Center with a teen center.
i
•
• MEMO TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONERS
FROM: MARY SAARION
DATE: FEBRUARY 13 , 1996
SUBJECT: ARDAN PARK COMPOST FACILITY IMPROVEMENT PLAN
UPDATE
I spoke with Zack Hanson, Director of Ramsey County Waste
Management today for an update regarding the plans for
improvements to Ardan Park compost facility. Zack reported that
the Advisory Commission approved the plans except for the
lighting. The plans will now go before Ramsey County
Commissioners for approval. It is hoped that we will hear from
Zack in March.
i
MINUTES OF THE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE CITIZEN TASK FORCE
Mounds View City Hall
Tuesday, February 6, 1996
7: 00 p.m.
PRESENT: Susan Fisher
Sue Webber
Pam Starr
Ed Hanson
Julie Trude, Council Liaison
Joyce Pruitt, Staff Member
Mary Saarion, Staff Member
Marshall Johnston, Resident and MNDOT
Representative
Sabri Ayaz, BRW Principal Engineer
Arjis Pakalns, Architect
INTRODUCTIONS : Persons introduced themselves. Sabri Ayaz and
Arjis Pakalns provided an overview of what they
wished to accomplish during this meeting. The
major task was to identify the location for the
bridge, destinations of users and best form of
access.
CONCEPTS : Arjis presented several conceptual designs of
pedestrian bridge ramps and accesses. The group
discussed the pros and cons of each.
LOCATION: It was decided that the location of the bridge
should be to access Long Lake sidewalk trail.
RAMPING: It was decided to look at combining two different
ramping concepts, with a spiral ramp on the north
side and a combination of ramp along Long Lake
Road sidewalk leading to a one spiral on the south
side. This will require additional land easements
from the library, Pastor Enterprises and Wildwood.
Staff will schedule a meeting with these three
agencies to discuss the possibilities.
NEXT MTG. Because of the short time line, a meeting will be
scheduled as soon as possible with the three
property owners so that location can be confirmed
for inclusion in the memorandum. Because this
needs to be completed before the next meeting with •
the citizen task force, a meeting date was not
411 set.
ADJOURNMENT: Meeting adjourned at 9 : 00 p.m.
coo ors
• Phone: (612) 784-3055
�� N Fax: (612) 784-3462
"Quite Simply the Best"
February 16, 1996
Good Day:
Three applications were received for one vacancy on the Parks and
Recreation Commission. All three applications have been
forwarded to the Mayor. It is hoped that an appointment will be
made at the February 26 City Council meeting. I wish that we had
openings for all three of you. Unfortunately our Parks and
Recreation Code allows for only 7 members on the Parks and
Recreation Commission. However, there is absolutely no reason
why the other two applicants couldn't participate on an
unofficial basis on the Parks and Recreation Commission. The
Parks and Recreation Commission is unique because each member
becomes active in leisure recreational and parks activities and
is a representative of each neighborhood or group or affiliation.
• And, the more representation the better. Therefore, please
consider participation in the Parks and Recreation Commission
even if you are not officially appointed.
I have mailed all three of you the packet of information for the
next Parks and Recreation Commission meeting to be held Thursday,
February 22 at 6 : 30 p.m. This will be an out-of-the-ordinary
meeting because the Parks and Recreation Commission will also be
attending the Old Highway 8 information meeting at 7 : 00 p.m. as a
group to advocate for an off-street trailway. (We are also the
citizen advisory group along with the Trailways Advisory Group to
oversee advancement of trailway systems within the city) .
I am so happy that all three of you are interested in
participating on the Parks and Recreation Commission. I wish we
had three official openings - but I am telling you that it
doesn't really matter because participation on the Parks and
Recreation Commission is less official action and instead is a
participatory group that relies on ideas and information and
participation in activities of the city in regards to parks and
recreation events.
So I wish to invite you to the meeting on Thursday, February 22
at 6: 30 p.m. I am hoping that the appointment is made at the
February 26 City Council meeting. But, regardless who is
appointed, I hope that the other two applicants continue to
• participate as ex-officio members of the Parks and Recreation
Commission.
6 PRINTED WITH '
SOYINK 2401 Highway 10• Mounds View, MN 551 1 2-1 499 m g/
recycled paper
If you have any questions please feel free to call me at 784-
0618 .
The three applicants are: Sherry Gunn, Doris Wilson and Kimberly
Knish.
Sincerely, •
Mary Saarion, Director
Parks, Recreation & Forestry
410
• APPLICATION FOR ADVISOR: GROUPS
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Teleonene: Home: Work or Otner:
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Your r,�ponse /to any of t ne accve may to continued cn tne back
and yeti :nav attecn any caner materials arctic:. you want tne Council
to ccns:der.
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.e C i:7 CT: Mounds V:eat is ccrri t_ed to tne =of_c_i t:.at a?
persons snalT have equal access to its programs, facilities , and
employment 41_ _nou: regard to race , creed , color, sex, age ,
-_na_ er_ _n , or ^andica::: .
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• APPLICATION FOR ACV=SC^RY GRCUPS
Group Applied For: oil?K5 AND REC>;EATlOk) CtmmiS5'CA)
Second Choice ( if any) :
Full Name (mint cr type ) : KIMQERL'-1 MARE KNISH
Address : -75-34 GREEN FIELD k.YEN.t.) , M\ouA)DS VIELJ
Years At T:iis Address : IS Years You Have Lived In Mounds View: 1,5
TeJepnone: acme: 133— /8 4$ orkt r Ct er:403-3-7,7
CUAL_I:ICATIONS YOU WANT TO HATE THE COUNCIL CONS:DER
Skills and Interests : I am curre,n+ly /ook;n5 ;n-b a )4 5 s prora.,,•• Whrch roCsrses
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Meincersrios , Accomplishments Or Ogler Qualifications : 1.4,m,9 sper,+
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me wi+h Sk;tls 4410,1 wocael 6erLeF;t Com+rrss,ai.
3'se your Reasons For Wanting To Serve Cr. T _s
Cccnm-
First a.nd C`orcmost, 2 am K.pplyini Poe- -441;s pos;+ia» ov* of a9enu.ne ci ;re. 1-o Lat.ae of
l r\ 'ny Common,4y. S aim ;n4e-Les4a fit wol'rtahy +os}t ...w 1 v h o 4.Inu- t-i 4-ita.+s 4e ,,,,
pos,4iut chOvnces rr,our oornmvnrdy a r,d support. Com/nuni1 ct.rttered events. k
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s4" 2- a.n d clino..nl c, o F o u r C,Fy
cur resocnse to any of tne aoove may to continued an tne aback
and You may attach any of er materials which you want the Council
consider.
S _yna:ure clZ:rn.,44y Cate 0f- 29- 96
1-he C tY of Mounds V_ew is committed to tne :_c'__c_; tna= all
oerscns shall ;faze ecual access to its cr:gams, facilities , and
.3mo ' c en: w'_tnou t regard to race , creed , color, sex, ace ,
national cr _n , or handicap .
•
Kimberly Knish
• 7534 Greenfield Avenue
Mounds View, MN 55112
(612) 783-1848
Career Objective: To obtain a challenging position in a structured and progressive environment which
will enable me to contribute my broad educational background, strong analytical skills,
and effective problem-solving capabilities.
Education: College of St. Benedict,St. Joseph,Minnesota
Bachelor of Arts,Biology,1993
Courses/Laboratory Studies:
Biology Immunology Microbiology Calculus
Radiation Biology Histology Physiology Genetics
Organic Chemistry Statistics Ecology
Employment History:
7/94 -Present Clayton Environmental Consultants,Inc.,Minneapolis,Minnesota.
An internationally recognized premier provider of environmental services.
Office Administrator
Recruited to establish and maintain the administrative systems of a newly acquired
office and act as a corporate liaison. Work independently to manage the daily office
activities. Proficiently perform invoicing, purchasing, accounts receivable, accounts
payable,time sheet processing,inventory control,collections, weekly and monthly
report generation,and database maintenance. Appointed to do asbestos air
sampling for a national account. Utilise Deltagraph Pro 3.5 for advanced task
analysis studies. Utilize Excel 4.0, Word 5.1,Act! 2.0,Persuasion 2.1,and Aldus
Pagemaker 5.0 for in-house marketing efforts and the creation of presentation
materials. Effectively manage the ergonomics product line and training materials
for the entire corporation. Assist in proposal and report development.
Accomplishments:
• Successfully took on tasks previously performed by two full-time and two part-
time employees. Resulted in a substantial savings in personnel costs.
• Improved the efficiency of operations by completely restructuring the office.
• Resolved the feasibility of including a product line in a consulting based firm.
• Updated all databases resulting in improved report.accuracy.
• Completely eliminated backlog of over$78,000 in client billings and over
$10,000 in accounts receivable over 90 days past due within first month.
• Audited all vendor accounts and immediately implemented cost containment
programs which resulted in a significant reduction in operating expenses.
Uncovered a vendor error which resulted in a refund to Clayton of$600.
• Worked closely with the director to revise and improve training materials.
• Regular involvement with product development. Aided in the development and
production of three new products.
• Restructured.updated,and maintained ergonomic vendor resource files.
Produced a corresponding catalog for the ergonomics branches of our firm.
• Took on additional responsibilities in lead coordination, in-house marketing.
sales, seminar coordination,and direct mailing. Shortened turn-around time
for customer requests for literature and products.
• Educated the staff on Clayton procedures and database requirements.
•
(Continued on back)
(Employment History, continued)
•
8/93 -7/94 Davis Chiropractic,St.Louis Park,Minnesota.
A small,privately owned chiropractic care facility.
Front Office Manager
Hired to assisted the doctor with examinations,acupuncture, soft-tissue therapy,and
seminars. Increased responsibilities to include maintaining medical records and
inventory,reception,payroll,accounts receivable,staff coordinating,transcription,
word processing,and training personnel. Supervised Doctor's Assistant,patient
flow,collections,accounts payable,and insurance billing.
Accomplishments:
i Received three Fomotions within first six months of employment.
• Became trained in all physical therapy modalities used and cross-trained into
all other positions in the facility.
• Empowered the facility by managing all functions of the office through several
staffing changes.
• Developed effective computerized methods for rapid report analysis.
• Streamlined collection and filing systems which resulted in an increase in
receivables and efficient information routing.
• Designed and implemented pre-treatment authorization and report tracking
systems which improved the timeliness of insurance billing and report
development.
• Improved procedure of administering acupuncture.
• Implemented patient management programs. 110
• Dramatically improved the accuracy and quality of the medical records.
• Reduced the backlog of insurance billings and significantly improved the
precision of patient accounts.
• Instigated major word processing upgrade.
9/92 -5/93 College of St.Benedict,St.Joseph,Minnesota.
A private, liberal arts college founded in 1913.
Biology Teaching Assistant
Demonstrated and led students through laboratory exercises. Graded assignments
and lab reports for 70 students. Set up laboratory equipment and calibrated
instruments prior to each laboratory session. Attended weekly meetings with
faculty to analyze and improve laboratory procedures.
Accomplishments:
• Held student help sessions to provide extra assistance to students.
• Utilized spreadsheets to improve accuracy of student records.
• Improved laboratory hygiene and organization.
Involvements: Volunteer Coordinator and VISTO board member 1991-1993. Organized and lead
three volunteer groups totaling over 100 volunteers in the areas of homelessness,
crises intervention,and friends to the elderly.
•
0
APPLICATION FOR ADVISORY GROUPS
Group Applied For: 0 1
K-'ae-kc C� Cer, ��criMts.
Second Choice ( it any) :
Full Name (print or type) :
Cher C LL n r1
Address :
S( 0 ec1 Cal; CoC0ct
Years At This Add ess : Years You Have Lived In Mounds View: : 1
Telepnone: Home: Work or Other:
r)ab-538 17 y -L 04
QUALIFICATIONS YOU WANT TO HAVE THE COUNCIL CONSIDER
Skills and Interests :
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1
Please State Your Reasons For Wanting To Serve On This Committee:
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Your response to any of the above may be continued on the back .
and you may attach any other materials which you want the Ccuncil ,
to consider. ,
�� i
Signature � �,l ,,l; �j�f�/'. Date t /l q&
The City of Mcunds..37'iew is committed to the policy that all
persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and
employment without regard to race, creed , color, sex, age ,
national origin , or handicap.
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• MEMO TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONERS
FROM: MARY SAARION
DATE: FEBRUARY 13 , 1996
SUBJECT: UPDATE REGARDING THE SALE OF THE BEL RAE
The Economic Development Authority adopted a resolution Monday,
February 12, 1996 to put earnest money down on the purchase of
the Bel Rae. An appraisal is being conducted on the property and
building. In addition, other information is being gathered. The
proposed purchase of the Bel Rae continues to move forward at
this time. The School District and City have and continue to
discuss options for monetary contribution to the facility.
I have submitted a Community Development Block grant to Ramsey
County for the purchase of teen center equipment should the
building indeed become a Community Center with a teen center.
•
•
• MEMO. TO: PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSIONERS
FROM: MARY SAARION
DATE: FEBRUARY 13 , 1996
SUBJECT: ARDAN PARK COMPOST FACILITY IMPROVEMENT PLAN
UPDATE
I spoke with Zack Hanson, Director of Ramsey County Waste
Management today for an update regarding the plans for
improvements to Ardan Park compost facility. Zack reported that
the Advisory Commission approved the plans except for the
lighting. The plans will now go before Ramsey County
Commissioners for approval. It is hoped that we will hear from
Zack in March.
411
• MINUTES OF THE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE CITIZEN TASK FORCE
Mounds View City Hall
Tuesday, February 6, 1996
7 : 00 p.m.
PRESENT: Susan Fisher
Sue Webber
Pam Starr
Ed Hanson
Julie Trude, Council Liaison
Joyce Pruitt, Staff Member
Mary Saarion, Staff Member
Marshall Johnston, Resident and MNDOT
Representative
Sabri Ayaz, BRW Principal Engineer
Arjis Pakalns, Architect
INTRODUCTIONS: Persons introduced themselves. Sabri Ayaz and
Arjis Pakalns provided an overview of what they
wished to accomplish during this meeting. The
major task was to identify the location for the
• bridge, destinations of users and best form of
access.
CONCEPTS : Arjis presented several conceptual designs of
pedestrian bridge ramps and accesses. The group
discussed the pros and cons of each.
LOCATION: It was decided that the location of the bridge
should be to access Long Lake sidewalk trail .
RAMPING: It was decided to look at combining two different
ramping concepts, with a spiral ramp on the north
side and a combination of ramp along Long Lake
Road sidewalk leading to a one spiral on the south
side. This will require additional land easements
from the library, Pastor Enterprises and Wildwood.
Staff will schedule a meeting with these three
agencies to discuss the possibilities.
NEXT MTG. Because of the short time line, a meeting will be
scheduled as soon as possible with the three
property owners so that location can be confirmed
for inclusion in the memorandum. Because this
needs to be completed before the next meeting with
the citizen task force, a meeting date was not
set.
ADJOURNMENT: Meeting adjourned at 9 : 00 p.m.
•
Focus Group Findings
City of Mounds View/District 621
Proposed Cooperative Facilities Project
+14. . = it+
BE
prepared for
The Community Connections Committee
February 8, 1996
•
•
Contents
Background 1
Objective 1
Focus Group Design 2
Time Line 3
Budget 3
Detailed Findings 4
Summary of Findings 20
Recommendations 22
Limitations of Focus Group Data 24
Appendix 25
•
Background
The Community Connections Committee was formed in March of 1995 a result of
space issues at Pinewood and Sunnyside Elementary Schools. The City Council of
the City of Mounds View and the 621 School Board passed resolutions to explore
working cooperatively for solutions to the space problems. The Community
Connections Committee began discussions regarding areas the city and the district
could work together beyond the issues of space at the elementary schools.
As a result of those discussions, it became apparent that the group needed to gather
additional information, outside their group, to use in deliberations. The ideas included
the exploration of conducting focus groups with citizens within the City of Mounds
View.
I was contacted by Sue Hankner, a Community Connections Committee member, to
pursue the concept with Samantha Orduno, City Administrator for the City of Mounds
View, and Nick Temali, Director of Community Education for the 621 School District.
Meeting were held August 4, September 18, and September 22, 1995 to
conceptualize the focus groups, determine focus group format, identify citizen groups,
and clarify the objective.
• I met with the Community Connections Committee on September 27, 1995 to discuss
what I felt was reasonable expectations from the focus groups and gather input for
planning the groups. The discussion included group composition and number,
Identification of group members, selection process, dates, reminder process, and
desired information/input from groups.
Objective
The objective of the focus groups was to gather information from a cross section of
citizens within the City of Mounds View. The information to be gathered would be
subjective in nature rather than reaction to possible scenarios. The goal would be to
pursue information gathering in four areas:
1 . What programs /services citizens would like to see available to residents of the
City of Mounds View to enhance children and family's lives. (wish list) Programs
and services to focus on both children and families at risk and enrichment program
and services for children and families.
2. What type of facilities would be needed to house these identified program and
services.
3. Where the facilities should be located to be accessible.
4. What program and services they do not want, and what facilities they do not want.
In addition to the above areas of information gathering, at the conclusion of the
1
• discussion focus group members would be asked to prioritize individually their number
1,2 and 3, programs and services, where the facilities should be located and what type
of facilities they would be willing to support financially.
Focus Group Design
Seven homogeneous groups were identified as focus groups to represent a cross
section of citizens residing within the City of Mounds View.
Parents with Preschoolers
Parents with Elementary, Middle School and High School Students
Youth (to be children of parents that participated in a focus group)
Service Providers within the schools and community
Business Representatives
Recreational users of facilities within the city.
Seniors
*session with the Economic Development Commission was added
Identification of possible focus group participants would be random selection from data
base lists that exist for each group. Ideal focus groups include participation of 8-12
members. Discussion was held regarding the minimum and maximum numbers
required to have functional focus groups. The recommendation and subsequent
decision was made that focus groups would be canceled if less than 5 persons were
willing to participate and the maximum would be 15 participants. Focus group
guidelines suggest over recruiting by at least 25% 1 , however a determination based
on past recruiting for groups within the city, was to over recruit by at least 100%.
A more formalized invitation would be sent to each potential participant with an letter of
background information and mission of the focus groups. The invitation would extend
an invitation to participate and an emphasis toward the importance of attendance
along with reassurance that a decision was not already made in regard to the issue. A
4x6 invitation would be included to provide them with the meeting date, time and
place. A prepaid postage RSVP postcard would also be included. A system of call
back, using Community Connections Committee members, to personalize the
invitation, was organized to encourage adequate participation and timely response.
Invitations were to be mailed with a 1 week response time prior to the call back phone
call to encourage participation. The facilitator was to prepare the mailing, the City of
Mounds View was to meter the response cards and mail the invitations. RSVP cards
were to be returned to the City Hall and call back phone calls were to be coordinated
through the City Administrator's Office.
Dates for the focus groups were set with the community and school calendars in mind
to avoid conflicts that might occur for a particular group of potential participants. The
determination was made to hold the focus groups for Service Providers in the early
1 Using Focus Groups, The Management Center College of St.Thomas, 1989.
2
A.M., Seniors mid morning, Youth during the school day, Business Representatives
during the traditional lunch hour and all other groups during the early evening hours.
The focus groups were to be 1 1/2 hours in length, with adherence to prompt starting
and ending times.
It was my recommendation, as facilitator, that at the conclusion of the focus group
process the Community Connections Committee consider holding and open forum to
gather additional input from community members that wish to speak to the issue but
did not receive a formal invitation to do so within the focus group format.
Time line
Focus groups would be scheduled during the mid October to early November period.
Preparation of report and feedback to the Community Connections Committee to take
place in December or January. A date to present the report to the City of Mounds View
City Council was to be determined.
Budget
• I, as the facilitator, determined that I would do this on a volunteer basis for the City of
Mounds View. The expense to the city would be postage paid response cards and
any staff time dedicated to the project.
3
•
Detailed Findings
Seniors
Tuesday October 17, 1995 9:30 a.m.
Response for this group was 2 participants so the group per the parameters was
canceled. The system of call back was overlooked and staff pursued participants
without success the day prior to the focus group. Feed back from some seniors within
• the community indicated there appeared to be some unresolved issues and
misunderstandings concerning a past project . Consequently, some seniors
responded that they were not interested in participating in a focus group based on the
above issues.
•
•
Service Providers 1
Wednesday October 25,1995 6:30 a.m.
9 Participants attended. They represented Edgewood Middle School and Irondale
High School staff to include: social workers, counselors, teachers, office staff,
administration and students from lrondale High School. Ramsey county staff.
Programs and Services (wish list'(
'Senior center within a school (MS)- modeled after Rocori school district
'Activity center for kids
a place to hang out
before and after school
year round
staffed by outreach workers
technology center
instructional help and support
therapy
'Family center (latch key model
shared care model
health center
physical
dental
mental
youth employment
Ramsey County services
'Transportation
within the community
to outside services
'Ramsey County Services to families housed in Mounds View
'Court Services
*Probation/police services
'Mobile Unit of Service
resource to neighborhoods
parenting support
support groups•
help dealing with school issues
5
clinic, e.g. health services
• technology lab
conflict management to the neighborhoods
'Performance Center/Arts Center
'PACER
'ARC
'Day treatment
Face to Face
FCAS
*WIC (women infants and children)
'Community Center or Organized sports activities center
sporting
hang out, drop in center
well supervised
advertised to make attractive
pool
'Network to join both sides of the highway and community
bridge
'Truancy Center
'Senior Center (could be part of the activities center)
congregate dining
• technology
pool-therapeutic pool
use as a resource
Facilities to House Programs and Services and where should the
Programs and Services be located to be accessible
'In existing buildings (school)
Edaewood
Irondale
Pinewood
Sunnyside
community link
activity based
latch key
Ramsey county services
open year round
link with seniors
'Mobile Unit
technology
community resources
meeting room
. WIC
6
• health care
school information- information, forms. registration
*Independent building
mandated Ramsey County services
e.g. child protection
daytime programs that could not be accommodated in other space
alternative education site/programs
community based transition
post high school special education
center with pool that could be used daytime hours as well as evening hours
*Overflow site
flexible space
short term needs
short term occupancy
*Space that coordinated both sides of community-north and south of Highway 10
way to safely get across the highway
Participant's #1,#2 and #3 Priorities of Programs and Services
Activity Center for Kids
8 participant's #1 priority
1 participant's #2 priority
Family Center
• 1 participant's #1 priority
2 participant's #2 priority
Transportation
2 participant's #2 priority
1 participant's #2 priority
Probation/Police
1 participant's #2 priority
Mobile Unit of Services
1 participant's #3 priority
Performance Center/Arts Center
1 participant's #2 priority
3 participant's #3 priority
Participant's #1, #2 and #3 priority of Facilities-where should the
programs and services be housed to be accessible
Existing buildings
4 participant's #1 priority
3 participant's #2 priority
Edgewood
6 participant's #1
3 participant's #2
Mobile Unit
2 participant's#2 priority
5 participant's#3 priority
7
• Independent building
2 participant's #1 priority
2 participant's #2 priority
2 participant's #3 priority
Center with a pool
1 participant's #1 priority
Alternative education site
3 participant's #2 priority
2 participant's #3 priority
Overflow space
1 participant's #3 priority
In regard to existing facilities, participant's #1 and #2 priority as to where
programs and services should be housed
Edgewood
6 participant's #1 priority
3 participant's #2 priority
*Note: 3 participant's #1 priority were tagged that programs and services should be
only housed at an independent site
5 participant's #2 priority were tagged that programs and services should be
• only housed at an independent site
Service providers were not all residents of the City of Mounds View so they were not
asked to to prioritize what they would be willing to support financially. They were also
not asked what they did not want and what they would not support financially.
Service Providers ll
Thursday October 26, 1995 7:00 a.m.
9 participants attended. They represented Pinewood and Sunnyside Elementary
Schools to include: social workers, teachers, office staff, and administration.
Programs and Services (wish list)
'Transportation for students/families outside school day to programs and activities and
services
safe for kids traveling alone
beyond the City of Mounds View
regular routes/service
investigate Shoreview/Roseville Circulator and Anoka County Traveler
Highway 10 is a barrier
• 'Activities for youth during the hours of 4:00-6:00 p.m.
developmentally appropriate
8
• motivating/challenging
enrichment
playgroups
'Cultural Support
ESL(English as a Second Language)
language development
students
adults
preschool
family support
integration programs
information about the schools and educational system
city, school and churches as cultural support centers
program expectations to take into account belief systems between expectations
of the mainstream and cultural expectations
diversity support
socioeconomic
role models within the community
'In Home programs
how to work with children
how to support child's education and and outside activities
• self esteem (Jim Corner program, Connecticut)
'Strengthen and enforcement of Housing Codes
eliminate living conditions stresser
'Intergenerational Programs
lap school- (rhyme, rhythm, repetition)
time spent with children
literacy
nurture
*Subsidized programs
language programs
recreational programs
expense for even 2 parent working families
'4-6 p.m. Hub
sports
music lessons
life skills (how to's)
early morning, late afternoon and night day care issues
'Communication system
pay phones at apartment buildings
link between neighbors
liaison person- paid job
• to communicate and work with persons regarding community and school
issues
9
• *Food shelf/thrift store
'Mobile programs
after school organized activities
parent education
literacy
goal to get persons to participate and be involved in schools, community
integration into school community
goal to use neighbors as coordinators, contact persons
'Elementary School Hub
Community Center at each elementary school
mental health
physical health and immunizations
ECFE(early childhood family education) expand birth - grade 5
laundry facilities
year round usage
longer day and weekend usage
county services coordination
e.g. food stamps
technology access
*Middle School Hub
• inciude above
probation services
Facilities to House Proarams and Services and where should the
Proarams and Services be located to be accessible
'City Hail as a hub
'Additions at the elementary schools
family potential usage over 11 years
gyms/pools
group space
office space
service provider space
communications center
copy center
technology
health services
laundry space
school staff needs to be less protective of space
*Mobile facility(like a book mobile model)
'Spaces at population clusters
empty apartments
mobile home parks
• *Police space integrated into school buildings
"Canteen facilities
10
• mobile
fixed
Participants' #1 #2 #3 priorities of Programs and Services
Combined Elementary school hub with in home programs and a mobile service
6 participant's #1 priority
1 participant's #2 priority
Activities of youth during 4-6 p.m.
1 participant's #1 priority
1 participant's #2 priority
2 participant's #3 priority
4-6 p.m. Hub
1 participant's #3 priority
Cultural support
1 participant's #3 priority
Intergenerational programs
2 participant's #3 priority
Transportation program
2 participant's #2 priority
Communication System/paid liaison person
1 participant's #2 priority
Participant's #1 #2 #3 priority of Facilities- where should the fro r m
and services be housed to be accessible
•
Additions at the elementary schools
6 participant's #1 priority
Mobile unit
2 participant's #1 priority
5 participant's #2 priority
Spaces at population clusters
8 participant's #2 priority
1 participant's #3 priority
Space at the middle school
1 participant's #3 priority
In regard to existing facilities, Participant's #1 and #2 priority as there
programs and services should be housed
Pinewood and Sunnyside
7 participant's #1 priority
Edgewood
1 participant's #1 priority
City Hall
7 participant's #2 priority
Service providers were not all residents of the City of Mounds View so they were no
• asked to prioritize what they would be willing to support financially. They were not
asked as well what they would not want and would not support financially.
11
i
Parents of Elementary. Middle School and Hiqh School Students
Parents with Preschoolers
Tuesday October 24, 1995 7:00 p.m.
Thursday October 26, 1995 7:00 p.m.
Response for both of these groups were under 5 participants combined. Per the
parameters the groups were canceled. One participant of the Elem. M.S. and H.S.
group was committed to getting a group together and told her call back contact that
she would try to get a group of friends and neighbors together. She was unsuccessful
at her attempt. Another response on call back was that most people should be
interested in this issue and process but unfortunately evening time is very precious
and busy for families.
12
Business Representatives
Wednesday October 25, 1995 11:30 a.m.
Response for this group was 1 participant. During the call back to urge participation,
several reason were given. Several indicated they did not have time. One respondent
indicated that the business community has little impact on community issue anyway.
One respondent indicated that what ever decision was made that they did not want to
see any governmental component that would bF in direct competition with private
industry within the city.
•
•
13
• \
Youth
As per the parameters, youth were to be in focus groups at their respective schools.
The youth involved in these groups were to be the children of the parents that
participated in the focus group of the Elementary, Middle School and High School.
The Elementary, Middle School and High School focus group was canceled. The
Service Providers group did however have representation of youth from Irondale.
•
14
•
Combined Group of Parents, Seniors, Business and Recreational Users
Thursday November 16, 1995 7:00 p.m.
In an effort to have a group that represented a broad base, people who indicated
interest in participating from the groups that were canceled were contacted to be part
of a combined group. 6 persons participated.
Programs and Services(wish list)
'Traveling playground
mobile home parks
apartment buildings
'Senior gathering place
transportation
health programs
exercise
*Public Health
easily accessible
immunizations
health education
• nutritution
'Parenting support
close to place of residence
outreach
'Transportation system
for residents to programs on their own turf
transportation to school events
program to coordinate volunteer drivers
hiway 10 divides the city, need transportation across
'Residential Program model
playground program K-6
preschool program
well child clinic
parent education on fellness
senior programs
health and nutrition
activities
social
'Activities and programs for "night owls" and late shift workers
time is a consideration for participation
'Community center
• teen center
safe environment
15
• hang out space
gym
good role models
gymnastics gym
gymnastics pit
regular gym space
play land
indoors
gathering place for community
community work out programs
all age groups
community kitchen spaces
seniors
large events
meeting room
'More community activities for youth
bonfire on Halloween was successful
*Community theater
art room
storage
• performances
public forum space
speakers
divisible into small spaces
large meeting spaces
Facilities to House Programs and Services and where should the
Programs and Services be located to be accessible
*Dedicated community rooms on site for residential programs
playground
public health
parenting classes
'Truck or van to bring services out to the community
multipurpose
'Community center
in the center of the city, centrally located
'Library building
has own entrance
*Teen programs
central location - city hall
Oakwood park
Edgewood
'Senior housing
• schools not accessible during the day
located in all quadrants of the city
16
• 'Gym
Edgewood
Irondale is out of the city but more gym space is needed
Participant's #1 #2 #3 priorities of Programs and Services
Transportation system
2 participant's #1 priority
2 participant's #2 priority
1 participant's #3 priority
Residential program model
4 participant's #1 priority
5 participant's #3 priority
Community Center
4 participant's #2 priority
Participants #1 #2 #2 priorities of Facilities-where the programs and
services be housed to be accessible
Designated community rooms
6 participant's #1 priority
Community Center
6 participant's #2 priority
• Gym
4 participant's #3 priority
Participant's #1 #2 #3 priorities for what type of Facilities they would
support financially
Designated community rooms
4 participant's #1 priority
Community Center
2 participant's #1 priority
4 participant's #2 priority
Gym
2 participant's #2 priority
4 participant's #3 priority
What Programs and Services and Facilities do you not want
'Don't centralize totally
need outreach programs
'Community center to be "exclusive"
financially unavailable for some citizens
segregated in any way, has to provide all citizen comfort
totally intergenerational- set up times for certain age groups
17
•
Mounds View Economic Development Commission
Attendance at one of their regular meeting to get a business perspective. The time
was not spent in regular focus group format. A 30 minute discussion format was
utilized
Programs and Services (wish list)
'Community Center
modeled after others in metro
'Focus should be central in location in all programs and services
'Seniors
congregate dining
retired U swim
walking program
'Food shelf
*Community health center
primary care
fellness
WIC
'Gym
multipurpose
'Classroom space for programs
'Latch key programs
2-6 p.m. after school hours
'Programs that you don't have to cross highway 10
'Transportation system
Facilities to house the Programs and Services and where should the
Programs and Services be located to be accessible
'Senior housing
community rooms
*New building -stand alone not attached
community rooms
services
large room space
multi use
multidimensional
'Look into private/nonprofit collaboration
'Behind Super America (21/2) acres
18
• 'By Library and Wildwood
'Bel Rae
What Programs and Services and Facilities do you not want and would
not support
'competition with private business
e.g. food service operation
*Competition with the YMCA
'Things that are not collaborative in nature
What Programs, Services and Facilities would you be willing to support
financially
'Projects that TIF money can be legally used
'Projects that could increase the industrial tax base in the city
41111
19
•
Summary of Findings
Programs and Activities
There appeared common themes from each group. These themes centered around
the areas of: youth activities. social service accessibility for a portion of the population,
senior citizen programs, a system of accessible transportation for youth and families,
outreach programs to differing areas of the city, coordination of community resources.
and support for families. These components were packaged differently by each group
however there were commonalities.
Youth Activities- The programs and services were perceived as greatly needed during
the after school hours, days off school, and evenings. Also possible would be before
school hours. They ranged from very organized activities to hang out space.
Social Services- The groups all indicated a need for health and wellness services to
be accessible as well as parenting and family support through a variety of agencies
• and programs.
Senior Citizen programs- The need was one of coordination and accessibility at a
central location with support services in close proximately to residence. Daytime
access to space was imperative.
Transportation- Transportation was indicated as a barrier for segments of the
population to include adults as well as children. The need was seen to participate in
programs and activities as well as accessing basic needs. The adult needs were
mostly during day time hours and after school hours for children. Highway 10 surfaced
as a hazard and a barrier in reaching both sides of the community.
Outreach- There appears to be great interest in providing services to families and
youth that don't for a variety of reasons access the traditional mainstream delivery
system. The ideas mostly centered on a mobile multipurpose unit that could bring a
variety of services.
Facilities and Facilities Location
The groups were more diverse on this question. The commonality was the space
available in the city now was inadequate to meet the program and service need. The
ideas ranged from additions to existing buildings to an independent stand alone,
centrally located building that could serve as a community center and service agency.
• To house the priorities set forth by the groups it indicates that spaces required would
include: a large multipurpose space, several other small spaces to house a variety of
20
city, school district, county, social service agencies and mee 'as a mobile unit for outreach. tang room spaces, as well
Large Multi-purpose space-Lack of access to more large multi-purpose spaces was
sited as a barrier to coordination of service and program needs within the community.
This type of space, especially during the day was desirable. Any space would need to
have flexibility for different age group programing to meet the needs of residents. The
same space was sited as a need to provide programs and services to children,
preschool - grade 12.
Small space- This space would need to be flexible space, size adjusted for need
identification purposes. This space could provide lease space for agencies as well as
school district programs e.g. ECFE that are not currently located within the city of
Mounds View.
Mobile sace- There appears to be need for a system of bringing services and
programs out to different parts of the community. Suggestions of satellites set up in
existing space, if such space exists, could be an alternative to this vehicle.
Priorities
The individually recorded priorities indicated that the most #1 priorities were in the
areas of activities centers for kids, designated community rooms for the city either at
existing buildings or a community center and a "one stop" so to speak hob that
encompassed school, community, agency and health services.
•
21
•
Recommendations
The focus groups appear to have two major sets of data that were revealed. One set
being the focus on facilities and what enrichment opportunities the city and school
district could offer with additional space available within the city of Mounds View. The
other set of data expresses a concern of unmet needs that exist for residents in areas
of the city.
With regard to the additional space for enrichment, the focus appears to be on
activities for children and meeting the needs of the after school, days out of school,
and evening hours. Space to have enrichment activities or just a place to hang out
appears to be an area that would keep children safe, provide an opportunity to offer
programs and services as need or interest arose and prevent opportunity for children
to stay out of trouble. Adult space appears to be needed to service the senior citizen
population and adult population during the day time hours that school space is not
available. The idea of a central location to provide a sense of community has appeal
to many participants. The idea that the more fragramented programs and services
become, the less participation and knowledge of how to access programs and
services becomes an issue. There is also a perceived need for additional large group
. meeting or gym space within in city.
The other set of data indicates a great deal of need for coordination of services
through agencies that aren't currently located with the city limits of Mounds View. Most
of the wish list of programs and services address problems that exist within the
community at the present. There appears to be needs, not being met, for a segment of
the population. Those needs seem to be wellness issues, family support programs
transportation and basic living needs. Those unmet needs appear to be having an
impact on the children and families within the city. The consequences to the
education, quality of life, law enforcement, and community health, appear to need
consideration.
My recommendation would be to first identify what data would be useful as the
city looks at it's current long range plan. Following, I would suggest that the city
council and the school board determine what it's priorities are in regard to additional
space. One focus being additional space for enrichment programs and services.
Those to include building a greater sense of community, coordination of community
and schools and access to space for additional recreational and educational programs
and events. The other focus is meeting some basic needs of wellness of residents
within the city. Those to include access to social agency support and family issues that
exist. The space that is needed for both of the focuses, while it may include an overlap
of facilities, also requires some very different space requirements.
It is further my recommendation that due to the lack of great numbers of
participants in this project, that the Community Connections Committee may consider
• gathering additional input, be it additional subjective in nature or reaction to proposed
additional space plans. I would suggest that the format would be going to identified
22
. resident group meetings rather than asking them to come to you. Possible groups to
include: PTA's and school committees; neighborhood, mobile park, apartment
association meetings ( if in existence); senior citizen housing buildings; Chamber of
Commerce; Lions clubs; Jaycees; adult enrichment classes; youth classes or groups;
athletic associations etc.
•
•
23
•
Limitations of Focus Group Data
Focus group data is not a research based gathering of material. Where as these focus
groups were designed to recruit a random sample of the population of the city of
Mounds View, participation was truly voluntary with no compensation being offered for
participation. Focus groups of this nature tend to attract persons that have a genuine
desire to be involved, but may also involve those who have an "ax to grind" or those
who may have a personal monetary stake in any decision. Properly utilized focus
groups are an excellent method of generating hypotheses about a particular issue.
While it is the facilitator's responsibility to generate comment from all participants,
group dynamics may dictate direction in certain areas to the exclusion of others.
On the other hand, group interaction is present that may stimulate new thought from
participants. In interpreting data, be reminded that the most discussion usually occurs
in the early part of the focus group. As the group continues, participants usually do not
generate as many comments as in the earlier part. "It must be remembered that this is
a qualitative study and as such represents the opinions of a very small sample... These
findings should not be used as the sole criterion upon which to base any decision."2
These findings should be used by the Community Connections Committee, the City
• Council of the City of Mounds View and the District 621 School Board to stimulate
discussion, generate ideas and to identify issues and opportunities. Further this data
can be used to better understand attitudes and concerns and can be used as one
piece of information in the decision process.
•
2 Using Focus Groups, The Management Center College of St. Thomas, 1989.
24
•
Appendix
Focus Group Plan
Focus Group Discussion Format
Letter to Potential Participants and Invitation
•
•
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• To: The City of Mounds View
From: Suzy Kaiser (786-0695)
Focus Groups
Groups the week of October 23-27
1. Tuesday October 24, 7-8:30 p.m. Parents of Elem, MS and HS students
- return cards are due 10-18 (today)
- you should have lists with names and phone numbers of invitations sent
- need at least 10 participants for this group. Ideally would like 12-14
participants.
- have extra invitations if you want to send out another round and do follow up
calls at end of week or weekend.
2. Wednesday October 25, 11:30-1:00 Business Reps
- return cards are due 10-18 (today)
-all business persons were invited that were indicated on the roster that
were identified as likely to participate.
- follow up calls should be made to encourage to attend and get a commitment
• to attend. Again, would like at least 10, ideally 12-14 participants.
3. Wednesday October 25, 6:30 am and Thursday October 26, 7:00 am Social Service
Providers
-Donna Nelson, principal at Pinewood is coordinating and contacting these
persons to attend.
- will need to have arrangements to have the city hall open early on Wednesday
morning for that early session.
4. Thursday October 26, 7:00-8:30 pm Parents of Preschoolers
-return cards are due 10-18 (today)
-same recommendations as with the parents of Elem, MS and HS parents
above
5. Week of November 6-9 Students
- I am arranging with the individual schools to hold these on site during that
week.
6. Thursday November 9, 7:00-8:30 pm Recreational Users
-invitations are yet to go out. I will get them out on Monday 10-23rd.
- this is a combined group of what was earlier identified as singles and empty
nesters
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-I have a few names, but still need to have names of participants. I have asked
community education to supply some names, addresses and phone numbers.
• Mary Saarion gave me a few, however she may be able to ID some additional
to add to the pool of names, since we will probably need to send out at least
40 invitations.
Focus groups meetings:
-need to have meeting space set up.
-need easel, to put up my paper tablet.
- I will pick up, muffins/ donuts and/ or cookies etc for groups, however coffee
and/or other beverage should be available for these groups. Is this something
the city can have ready for the groups?
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Focus Groups
Introductions (5 Minutes)
History of the Community Connections Committe (5 Minutes)
Format
1. What programs/services (wish list) would you like to see available to
residents of the City of Mounds View to enhance kids and families lives?
Kids and families at risk
Enrichment of families not at risk (20 minutes)
2. What type of facilities would be needed to house these programs
/services? (20 minutes)
3. Where should these facilities be located to be accessible? (10 minutes)
• 4. What programs/services do you not want? (20 minutes)
Facilities do you not want?
(10 minutes)
5. Priorities 1 ,2,3 of programs/services.
6. Priorities 1 ,2 (3) where facilites should be located.
7. Priorities 1 ,2,3 for what type of facilities you would be willing to support
financially.
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I :1 = • • • • ivirt
The Community Connections Committee was formed in March of 1995 e
result of space issues at Pinewood and Sunnyside Elementary Schools. The District
021 School Board and the City Council of the City of Mounds View passed resolutions
to explore working cooperatively for-solutions to the space problems. The Community
Connections Committee began discussions regarding areas the city and the district
could work together beyond the issues of space at the eementary schools.
As a result of our discussion, it become apporent that we should utililize the
ideas and talents of the residents of our city in the discussions. We decided the best
way to gather this information was to conduct focus groups, with a variety of resident
groups, from within the city.
We hope that you will be willing to spend some time with a focus group
facilitator and provide valuable input that we may use in our discussions. We ore in
the information gathering phase of our process, assessing the needs and interests of
• .the City of MoundsView residents. No pions hove been formulated.
We ask that you make every effort to attend your focus group. The more
• information we gather, the more valuable it will be to our committee. Thank you in
advance for your input and your time.
The Community Connections Committee,
Kim Goodsell Ha-oid Kurtz Louise E James Paron
Early Childhood District 021 Senior Residents
Family Education School Board
Advisory Council •
Sue Hankner Dan Nelson Nick Temali
Mounds View City Council Mounds View Economic Director of Community
• Economic Development Development Commission Education, Dist 021
Authority
_Darissa Hitt Donna Nelson Julie Trude
Parent, Sunnyside Principal, Pinewood Mounds View
Elementary School Elementary School City Council
Penny Howard Samantha Orduno
Principal, C'^ ounds View
c -nor' City Administrator
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¶ou are cordially invited to attend and
express your ideas and thoughts during a Tocus Group,
focusing on Tacilities, 'Facility"-Usage and(Services
for residents within the City of 9)lounds 'Diem.
• 7uesdary. October 24, 1995
al the Mounds ')iew C'i 91all
7:00 - 6.30 p.m.
Tour input is extremely valuable.
(-Please 9.6 (UT rah the encioised Gerd
by cltlednasdey October 16 lb.
ilk men