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City Council Regular Meeting Minutes September 14, 2004 04 Page 4 1 2 3 V. REPORTS FROM PLANNING COMMISSION. 4 None. 5 6 VI. GENERAL POLICY BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL. 7 A. Update on Silverwood - Three Rivers Park District. 8 Commissioner Rosemary Francis approached the Council in stating that the time in"fast 9 approaching" in which the Silverwood Park will be opened, indicating that it has been a long 10 process. She introduced Dennis Hahn of Three Rivers Park District. 11 12 Mr. Hahn addressed the Council noting that he has had the:opportunity to manage the Silverwood 13 Park Project. He indicated that the park will be open in October for members of the communities 14 of St. Anthony,New Brighton, Columbia Heights and other surrounding metropolitan 15 communities to use. He noted that when the Three Rivers Park District purchased the property 16 three years ago, it was determined that it was to remain a"unique recreational area", therefore,the 17 entire metropolitan area should be able to come and enjoy the area. 18 19 Mr. Hahn provided an overview of the property noting that the park will include special 20 recreational areas for biking, walking,picnicking, education and others. He indicated that the 21 trails have been cleared by the Forestry Department this summer. He presented that natural 22 features that have been preserved which include ponds,rolling oak tees and the Native American 23 burial site. He added that the lake will be protected against run off as well,which was a concern 24 that late Mayor Hodson addressed with him. 25 26 Mr. Hahn indicated that an attendant will be onsite from 8:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m. to address any 27 questions and to direct those utilizing the park. He reviewed the schedule of activities that will be 28 taking place which include Park Education(October 10 and 17), Halloween Celebration(October 29 29) as well as Winter Walks that will also be taking place this winter. 30 31 Mr. Hahn noted that the utilities and structures that exist throughout the park will be assessed 32 prior to the opening. He stated that some of the facilities have "great"renovation potential, 33 whereas others do not. He indicated that once the assessments have been completed,the 34 infrastructure will be developed which includes parking, gardens,an interpretive center, fishing, 35 an amphitheater and more. He noted that there will be no duplication of activities that already 36 exist on the lake. 37 38 Mr. Hahn stated that the long-term plan is to focus on the environment and arts,which will 39 involve educating individuals about nature. 40 4.1 Councilmember Horst questioned the communication vehicles that the park district plans on 42 utilizing in communicating the planned events. Mr. Hahn responded in noting that they will be 43 advertising in the Northeaster, and in their own newsletters; Season and Discovery. He added that 44 they are working with the Assistant City Manager on a Press Release that will be out September 45 15, 2004,which will be focused on communicating the park opening and the scheduled events. 46