HomeMy WebLinkAboutPK PACKET 03082021CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGE
PARKS & ENVIRONMENTAL
COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
March 8, 2021 at 7 PM
Following guidance from state health officials, some commissioners may choose to participate in
upcoming meetings electronically pursuant to MN Stat. §13D.021.
Due to health concerns and limited seating, we encourage the use of our virtual option to attend
this meeting.
Join Meeting via Zoom
Call To Order
Roll Call
Introduction Of Members
Approval Of Agenda
Approval Of Minutes
December 7, 2020 Parks & Environmental Commission Minutes
PK 12 -07 -2020.PDF
Presentations
Silverwood Park Updates
Alyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor presenting.
SILVERWOOD PARK SPRING UPDATE.PDF
Central Park Drain Tile Project And Stadium Field And Turf Project Update
Troy Urdahl, St. Anthony New Brighton Schools Director of Athletics , Activities,
Facilities and Transportation presenting.
Presentation From Minneapolis Bike Advisory Committee
Dan Miller presenting.
Citizens For Sustainability Updates
Lona Doolan, Citizens for Sustainability presenting.
CFS UPDATE TO PEC - MARCH 2021.PDF
Friends Of The Parks Update
Lona Doolan presenting.
FRIENDS OF THE PARKS - MARCH 2021.PDF
2020 Water Conservation Poster Contest Winners
Therese Bellinger, Parks and Environmental Chair presenting.
2020 WATER CONSERVATION POSTER CONTEST WINNERS.PDF
Commission Reports
Other Business
Upcoming Meetings
June 7, 2021
August 30, 2021 -Worksession
September 13, 2021
December 6, 2021
Community Forum
Individuals may address the Parks Commission about any City business item not
included on the regular agenda. Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign
their name and address on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the
Clerk ’s record, and limit their remarks to five minutes. Generally, the Park Commission
will not take official action on items discussed at this time, but may typically refer the
matter to staff for a future report or direct the matter to be scheduled on an upcoming
agenda.
Adjournment
If you would like to request special accommodations or alternative formats, please contact the City Clerk
at 612 -782 -3313 or email city@savmn.com . People who are deaf or hard of hearing can contact us by
using 711 Relay.
Our Mission is to be a progressive and welcoming Village that is walkable, sustainable and safe.
I.
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IV.
V.
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Documents:
VI.
A.
Documents:
B.
C.
D.
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E.
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F.
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VII.
VIII.
IX.
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CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGEPARKS & ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING AGENDAMarch 8, 2021 at 7 PMFollowing guidance from state health officials, some commissioners may choose to participate in upcoming meetings electronically pursuant to MN Stat. §13D.021.Due to health concerns and limited seating, we encourage the use of our virtual option to attend this meeting. Join Meeting via ZoomCall To OrderRoll CallIntroduction Of MembersApproval Of AgendaApproval Of MinutesDecember 7, 2020 Parks & Environmental Commission MinutesPK 12 -07 -2020.PDFPresentationsSilverwood Park UpdatesAlyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor presenting. SILVERWOOD PARK SPRING UPDATE.PDFCentral Park Drain Tile Project And Stadium Field And Turf Project UpdateTroy Urdahl, St. Anthony New Brighton Schools Director of Athletics , Activities, Facilities and Transportation presenting. Presentation From Minneapolis Bike Advisory CommitteeDan Miller presenting.
Citizens For Sustainability Updates
Lona Doolan, Citizens for Sustainability presenting.
CFS UPDATE TO PEC - MARCH 2021.PDF
Friends Of The Parks Update
Lona Doolan presenting.
FRIENDS OF THE PARKS - MARCH 2021.PDF
2020 Water Conservation Poster Contest Winners
Therese Bellinger, Parks and Environmental Chair presenting.
2020 WATER CONSERVATION POSTER CONTEST WINNERS.PDF
Commission Reports
Other Business
Upcoming Meetings
June 7, 2021
August 30, 2021 -Worksession
September 13, 2021
December 6, 2021
Community Forum
Individuals may address the Parks Commission about any City business item not
included on the regular agenda. Speakers are requested to come to the podium, sign
their name and address on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the
Clerk ’s record, and limit their remarks to five minutes. Generally, the Park Commission
will not take official action on items discussed at this time, but may typically refer the
matter to staff for a future report or direct the matter to be scheduled on an upcoming
agenda.
Adjournment
If you would like to request special accommodations or alternative formats, please contact the City Clerk
at 612 -782 -3313 or email city@savmn.com . People who are deaf or hard of hearing can contact us by
using 711 Relay.
Our Mission is to be a progressive and welcoming Village that is walkable, sustainable and safe.
I.II.III.IV.V.A.Documents:VI.A.Documents:B.C.
D.
Documents:
E.
Documents:
F.
Documents:
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2 PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING
3 DECEMBER 7, 2020
4 7:00 p.m.
5
I.6 CALL TO ORDER.
7
8 Chairperson Bellinger called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
9
II.10 ROLL CALL.
11
12 Commissioners Present:Chair Therese Bellinger, Commissioners Michael Guest, James Niemi,
13 Patrick Penner, and Renee Reed.
14
15 Absent:None
16
17 Also Present: Councilmember Bernard Walker, School District Representative Troy
18 Urdahl, Silverwood Park Supervisor Alyssa Baguss, Citizens for
19 Sustainability and Friends of the Parks Lona Doolan, Assistant to the
20 City Manager Charlie Yunker, Public Works Superintendent Jeremy
21 Gumke, School District Representative Cassandra Palmer, and
22 Student Liaison Lucas Lundgren.
23
III.24 INTRODUCTION OF MEMBERS.
25
26 Chair Bellinger mentioned the death of Jay Hartman who passed away in November. She
27 recognized his leadership and guidance through the past many years.
28
29 IV.APPROVAL OF THE DECEMBER 7, 2020 PARKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
30 COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA.
31
32 Motion by Commissioner Guest, seconded by Commissioner Reed, to approve the December
33 7, 2020, Parks and Environmental Commission agenda.
34
35 Motion carried unanimously.
36
37 V.APPROVAL OF THE SEPTEMBER 14, 2020 REGULAR PARKS AND
38 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
39
40 Commissioner Reed noted on page 4 line 28 the parks missing recycling containers were Salo
41 and Trillium Parks.
42
43 Motion by Commissioner Reed, seconded by Commissioner Guest, to approve September 14,
44 2020 Regular Parks and Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes as amended.
45
46 Motion carried unanimously.
47 VI.PRESENTATIONS.
48
A.49 Silverwood Updates
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 2
1
2 Silverwood Park Supervisor Alyssa Baguss provided a power point presentation including the
3 mission of Three Rivers Park District is to promote environmental stewardship through
4 recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. It encompasses over 27,000
5 acres of parks and trails and serves millions of visitors annually. Ms. Baguss noted the
6 location of the park and noted it is part of the Three Rivers Park District. There are 26 parks
7 as part of the Park District. There is no admission to the park and there is free parking. Many
8 of the programs at Silverwood Park are free. Ms. Baguss showed an overhead view of the
9 overflow parking lot.
10
11 Ms. Baguss provided a review of the 2020 Programs and Projects in Silverwood Park along
12 with photographs. The camps had ten or less participants in response to Covid. All programs
13 are outdoors and will continue through the winter months. A float in movie theater was held
14 on Silver Lake in July. There are five new sculptures and an updated poetry trail.
15
16 A photograph of the Silverwood Island Shoreline restoration project which will begin in 2021
17 was provided. Wellness in the Park is offered with yoga and meditation where visitors can
18 also join guided and self-guided walks on a new forest bathing trail. It is the first forest
19 bathing trail in the State of Minnesota. The new gallery pieces – Suspended Modulations will
20 be open January 14 – February 28, 2021. Facility rentals for 2022 will open January 4, 2021.
21 The shoreline restoration project has been postponed and will begin in 2021.
22
23 Commissioner Guest asked how many patrons visit Silverwood Park and Ms. Baguss stated
24 The Met Council did a study and estimated there were 400,000 annually. This year there was
25 approximately a 300% increase in the Spring.
26
27 Councilmember Bernard Walker asked about the movie and whether boats can be rented. Ms.
28 Baguss stated they do have a rental boat operation which consists of 6 canoes. She noted there
29 were attendees in all types of floating crafts. Councilmember Walker asked if this would
30 continue in 2021 and Ms. Baguss stated they are considering that.
31
32 Commissioner Guest asked where the events are publicized, and Ms. Baguss stated on their
33 website, along with Facebook and Instagram.
34
35 School Board Representative, Ms. Cassandra Palmer, joined the meeting at 7:30 p.m.
36
B.37 Central Park Drain Tile Project and Stadium Field and Turf Project Update
38
39 Mr. Troy Urdahl reviewed a power point titled Central Park Projects Update. He stated the
40 goal is to study the need and feasibility of synthetic turf at Central Park. He summarized the
41 Operational Goal Rationale. The stadium field needs assessment includes concession stand,
42 ticket booth, accessible restrooms, press box, bleachers, stadium field turf surface and stadium
43 running track.
44
45 Mr. Urdahl reviewed the use investigation stating the District is 40+ acres short on land by
46 MDE standards for new construction, there are over 2000 youth users of Central Park each
47
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 3
1 year and demographic study shows population and diversity of the school district to continue
2 growing in the near future. The installation of synthetic turf would double the number of
3 groups, participants, and events able to use the stadium field each year.
4
5 Through a partnership with the City, the City identified exploring turf improvements with the
6 School District as an action step during its 2019 and 2020 strategic planning goal session. ISD
7 #282 and the City have collaborated to create funding synergies. Mr. Urdahl continued a
8 synthetic turf field with a running track and equipment would cost approximately
9 $2,626,350.00. The school district has received a $280K Hennepin County grant for the
10 installation of the turf. Grant matching partners have pledged $20K+. The City has worked
11 with the district to contribute toward the Stadium Project and Central Park Drain Tile. The
12 funding sources include general obligation capital facilities bond, certificates of participation
13 (lease levy), Hennepin Youth Sports Grant, City of St. Anthony Contribution and community
14 organizations.
15
16 Estimated maintenance costs include $20,000 per year for current maintenance and $5,000 in
17 annual maintenance for synthetic turf. There would be reduced use of irrigation water,
18 fertilizers, and pesticides in Central Park. Braun Intertec has conducted multiple soil study on
19 the stadium field and track & field areas, confirming these areas will support the proposed
20 projects. The performance indicators/documentation were reviewed. The School Board
21 Meetings where these projects were discussed were summarized with dates and agenda items.
22
23 Mr. Urdahl reviewed the timeline for the projects. The work is being paused currently. Mr.
24 Urdahl provided an update on the drain tile project.
25
26 Commissioner Reed asked Mr. Urdahl how much from property taxes will go toward the
27 project. Mr. Urdahl’s response was inaudible. Commissioner Reed asked if the track will do
28 around the field and will a fence be around the track? Can it be used without permission? Mr.
29 Urdahl stated it will be fenced and will be used by teams. Mr. Urdahl’s response was
30 inaudible.
31
32 Ms. Lona Doolan asked if an environmental impact study was done, as to the amount of water
33 that would be coming off the artificial turf and is it known if remediation will be needed. Mr.
34 Urdahl stated significant permitting is required and Rice Creek Watershed has been a partner
35 in the permitting process.
36
C.37 Citizens for Sustainability Updates
38
39 Ms. Lona Doolan, 3511 Harding Street, appeared before the Commission to provide the
40 Citizens for Sustainability update. Ms. Doolan thanked the Commission for the opportunities
41 to bring the ideas from Citizens for Sustainability for 2021. Ms. Doolan spoke about Jay
42 Hartman and his support and contributions to the Citizens for Sustainability efforts.
43
44 Ms. Doolan presented tips for the holidays. She suggested shopping local, planning ahead,
45 giving green gifts, avoiding plastic packaging and choose vendors that use recycled material
46 or carbon offsets.
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 4
1
2 On behalf of Citizens for Sustainability Ms. Doolan requested the organics collection site
3 containers be modified with weighted hinges on the lids.
4
5 Ms. Doolan reviewed the 2021 CFS Goals within the community:
1.6 Help ISD 282, Nativity and Faith churches deliver on final grant requirements.
2.7 Sponsor online book discussion of Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming by David
8 Wallace-Wells.
3.9 Oversee Solar Demonstration Installation.
4.10 Sponsor a Solar Energy Awareness Workshop.
11
12 Their goals within local/regional government:
1.13 Advocate for safer biking/walking infrastructure in St. Anthony.
2.14 Advocate for 2040 Sustainability goal development and progress reporting.
3.15 Partner with Heights Next to sponsor Growing Grocery Workshop.
16
17 Ms. Doolan reviewed calls to prioritize safer walking and biking and the history of calls for
18 improvement in Bike/Walk infrastructure.
19 2014: Safe Routes to Schools identifies safety issues.
20 2015: Bike/Walk St. Anthony identifies gaps and calls for Bike and Pedestrian Plans.
21 2016: Ramsey and Hennepin Counties both present Bike and Pedestrian Plan and
22 identify gaps.
23 2018: Biking problems noted in 2040 Comp Plan development.
24 2019: Met Council presentation to City Council.
25
26 The 2014 SRTS Recommendations were reviewed including issues and recommendations.
27 The 2015 Bike/Walk St. Anthony Request was reviewed. The list was included in the Comp
28 Plan but nothing more came of it. Ms. Doolan reviewed the improvements noted in the 2040
29 Comp Plan in detail. A diagram of the missing links in the Grand Rounds area was shown.
30
31 Ms. Doolan suggested the following for 2021.
1.32 Invite Dan Miller (Mpls. Bike Advisory Committee) to the March PEC.
2.33 Ask Commission and Council Member(s) to participate in regional Bike and
34 Pedestrian planning entities.
3.35 Select 1 street to paint Bike Boulevard striping and study its usage.
4.36 Encourage Mpls. Park Board to build a bike path next to the golf course.
5.37 Engage Hennepin County to plan safer access to trail on County Road C.
6.38 Engage Hennepin County to plan bike connections via Stinson Blvd.
39
40 Ms. Doolan encouraged the Park Board to build a bike path, pilot a bicycle boulevard on a
41 City street and consider simple changes on Stinson Blvd.
42
43 The 2020 requests to the Parks and Environmental Commission were reviewed:
1.44 Participate in West Metro Cities Climate Action Conversations.
2.45 Take up a study on plastic bag ban in St. Anthony.
3.46 Call for environmental impact study for Central Park field changes.
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 5
4.1 Advocate for Nice Ride stations in St. Anthony.
5.2 Take up recommendation for Electric car charging station at Central Park.
6.3 Install a walking path in Trillium Park.
4
5 Commissioner Guest stated it was a good presentation and he is concerned about safe walking
6 and bicycling in St. Anthony.
7
8 Chair Bellinger stated the challenge is how to actually make these things happen. The
9 Commission supports the recommendations presented. Commissioner Guest asked how the
10 Commission has done that in the past. Chair Bellinger stated a plan and goal needs to be
11 established and discuss how to make it happen. Commissioner Guest suggested a
12 recommendation to the City Council be made and present at the January planning meeting to
13 be included in the plan and the budget. Commissioner Reed stated the Commission only has
14 advisory recommendations. She suggested Councilmember Walker support the Commission.
15 Commissioner Reed asked Councilmember Walker how to get these recommendations before
16 the City Council and how much money is available in the budget for park issues.
17 Councilmember Walker stated he would support what was presented this evening.
18 Commissioner Guest suggested passing a motion to recommend the City Council review the
19 suggestions. Commissioner Niemi suggested the Commission come up with prioritization of
20 the requests. Mr. Yunker stated the budget for 2021 is done but it’s a continuous process. He
21 suggested bringing priorities to the Council at the planning session. Chair Bellinger will be
22 invited. Commissioner Reed asked if there is a line item in the budget for parks. Mr. Yunker
23 stated there is a maintenance budget and larger expenditures would be in the capital
24 improvement plan.
25
26 Ms. Doolan stated the Citizens for Sustainability can assist on collaborating on some of the
27 requests. They can gather information and research grant opportunities. Mr. Mark _______
28 appeared with Ms. Doolan and asked that discussions continue with the counties. The
29 residents want to see better connections with other neighboring cities.
30
31 Commissioner Guest suggested there be more frequent meetings to map out the plan and what
32 they want to do. Chair Bellinger agreed that more work sessions are needed in 2021. She will
33 meet with Mr. Yunker to plan additional meetings. Commissioner Guest suggested a meeting
34 date be set. Mr. Yunker suggested he discuss with Chair Bellinger first.
35
D.36 Re-surfacing of Tennis Courts
37
38 Mr. Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Superintendent reviewed the surface condition of the six
39 tennis courts located south of City Hall has been steadily deteriorating over the last ten years.
40 The courts were built in 1998 and have been repaired on four different occasions since 2012.
41 Surface cracks have been filled and painted, low areas leveled off, and lines repainted in the
42 repair areas for a total cost of nearly $20,000.
43
44 The 2021 Capital Improvement Plan has scheduled the replacement of the tennis courts
45 located next to City Hall as a 2022 project. Given the current conditions of the court and a
46 favorable priced construction environment City Staff has explored moving up the project date
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 6
1 to 2021. Staff has received an updated quote that would also include additional striping on all
2 or some of the courts to allow for Pickleball. During Covid-19 outdoor recreation has been in
3 high demand and that is expected to continue.
4
5 The project’s cost is estimated at $160,000-$170,000, which comprises the contractors quote,
6 engineering costs and contingency allowance and would include striping for Pickleball courts
7 as well if desired. A funding source would need to be identified to fund replacement earlier
8 than 2022.
9
10 Staff is also assessing the condition of the retaining walls between the courts and the storm
11 water reuse pond and assessing if those walls have had impact on the cracking in the courts. If
12 there is a connection determined, there may be additional costs to ensure the walls are
13 stabilized and help protect the courts from cracking.
14
15 This topic of project timing was discussed at the October 26, 2020 City Council Work Session
16 and staff was directed to seek input from the Parks & Environmental Commission.
17
18 Mr. Gumke posed the following items for discussion and feedback for the City Council. Does
19 the condition of the courts necessitate accelerating the replacement to 2021 from 2022?
20
21 Should the courts be striped for Pickleball as well? If so, how many?
22
23 Councilmember Walker asked if a tennis court were divided it would create two pickle ball
24 courts and Mr. Gumke stated that was correct. Councilmember Walker asked if there is an
25 increase in cost putting the lines on the court. Mr. Gumke stated that any increased cost would
26 be negligible for adding additional striping.
27
28 Commissioner Niemi asked if there were concerns with the high school using the courts for
29 competition. Mr. Yunker stated he contacted the high school and the tennis team would not
30 have any issues with the lines.
31
32 Chair Bellinger asked if there is data on how many participants would use the courts. Mr.
33 Gumke stated that the city does not have data on usage, but observationally the courts are
34 highly utilized by the school district and the general public.
35
36 Mr. Chad Geller, Paul Avenue, stated pickle ball is the fastest growing sport in the United
37 States. The group has put some information on usage and numbers of courts from
38 neighboring cities. The high school does a unit in their phy ed classes on pickle ball which
39 increases the number of youth using the courts and playing. Investing in the striping helps
40 participants use the courts more than the use of a tennis court. Mr. Geller sent Mr. Gumke
41 information. Mr. Geller supported the resurfacing and striping the courts for pickle ball. He
42 noted six pickle ball courts can be put in an outdoor hockey rink.
43
44 Mr. Geller recommended two options. There needs to be some dedicated pickle ball space or
45 the shared space on the tennis courts. He suggested the culver courts on Silver Lake Road be
46 converted to pickle ball courts. They would also like to see striping of the tennis courts on the
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 7
1 City Hall campus as there are lights. Mr. Geller explained how he got into playing pickle ball
2 with his family. It’s a multi-generational inexpensive sport.
3
4 Any other aspects of the replacement the City Council should consider?
5
6 Photographs of the current court conditions were provided for Commission review as well as
7 a project bid.
8
9 Councilmember Walker asked Mr. Gumke to forward the information from Mr. Geller to the
10 Commission and him. Mr. Geller is in the hopes of organizing a pickle ball tournament in the
11 future. Commissioner Niemi asked if there would be some negative feedback at the culver
12 courts if it were designated only for pickle ball.
13
14 Mr. Yunker stated the funding is at the discretion of the Council. The reason the Council had
15 asked for input on pickle ball is whether the City needs to look at finding a funding source to
16 do the project a year early. Commissioner Niemi asked how long that would take and Mr.
17 Yunker stated currently its slated in 2022 for replacement and Council will determine if there
18 is a need to adjust to find a way to do it in 2021.
19
20 Chair Bellinger stated she is unsure as to whether enough research has been done.
21 Commissioner Guest stated there are still some unanswered questions as to the needs of the
22 tennis players in the community. Chair Bellinger stated it would be more prudent to determine
23 which courts should be looked at. Commissioner Niemi suggested the culver court be solely
24 pickle ball. Commissioner Reed stated she would have concerns as it would be nice for kids to
25 be able to walk to play tennis in that neighborhood. She would like to see some pickle ball
26 courts at Central Park.
27
28 Mr. Yunker asked if based on the condition of the courts is it desired to move this up to 2021.
29 It would not be cost effective to stripe the courts and then tear it up for resurfacing. Mr. Geller
30 stated to take the courts out of commission during the nice months when the pandemic is still
31 present, would be disappointing. Commissioner Niemi suggested the work be moved up a
32 year to make the courts ready sooner.
33
34 Ms. Palmer asked if the Central Park tennis courts resurfacing is included in the discussion of
35 moving resurfacing up to 2021. Commissioner Niemi stated that is his understanding. Ms.
36 Palmer stated for safety issues it would be a prudent thing to do. Commissioner Reed agreed if
37 there are safety issues it should be moved up. Chair Bellinger asked if weather is a factor and
38 Mr. Gumke stated late winter early spring would be a good time to do the work.
39 Commissioner Guest suggest the Commission gather all the information and use the money
40 instead for striping bike or pedestrian paths. Commissioner Niemi stated the more this is
41 discussed the further the work will be pushed out and contractors need to be scheduled. Chair
42 Bellinger stated more information is needed. Commissioner Niemi asked if the striping for
43 pickle ball could be added to the contract for the re-surfacing. The consensus of the
44 Commission is to move the re-surfacing to 2021 if a funding source can be found. There is a
45 large demand for pickle ball and the striping of the courts will be later discussed.
46
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 8
E.1 2021 Meeting Dates
2
3 The list of 2021 Parks and Environmental Commission Meetings which occur quarterly on the
4 first Monday of the month unless noted, will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the City Hall Council
5 Chambers.
6
7 March 8, 2021
8 June 7, 2021
9 September 13, 2021
10 December 6, 2021
11
12 Additional dates will be added as necessary after discussion between Chair Bellinger and
13 Staff. The Council planning session will be held January 13,14,15, 2021. Commissioner Reed
14 suggested the Commission meet prior to January 13.
15
F.16 2021 Work Plan
17
18 The Parks and Environmental Commission is a five-member advisory commission, appointed
19 by the City Council and is charged with the following duties (City Code Chapter 32, Section
20 32.25):
A.21 To prepare, revise and maintain a comprehensive, long-term plan for the
22 redevelopment of parks within the City. This plan shall be viewed as a working
23 document that serves as a framework and reference to future redevelopment;
B.24 To make recommendations to and advise the City Council and staff regarding park and
25 environmental issues and ideas;
C.26 To establish priorities and recommend a phasing plan and schedule for implementing
27 innovative park and environmental initiatives improvements, renovations, and plans;
D.28 To work with other communities to explore cooperative arrangements to develop
29 connecting routes in the form of bikeways, walking paths, and corridors of green space
30 wherever possible;
E.31 To investigate funding sources, including requests for increases in the city budget,
32 designated for parks, green spaces and environmental initiatives;
F.33 To seek new areas for additional parks, natural areas, walking paths, bikeways, and
34 green space corridors;
G.35 To generate community involvement in the development of parks, environmental
36 initiatives and their elements;
H.37 To review and recommend revisions to t he operation and maintenance of city parks
38 and environmental initiatives; and
I.39 To periodically review, re-evaluate, and update the comprehensive park and
40 environmental initiatives plan to reflect current and future park needs of the city.
41
42 In 2021, the Parks and Environmental Commission will focus on the following items:
43 Continue with citywide Parks cleanup in Spring 2021.
44 Education and outreach in conjunction with community organizations to promote use
45 of the organics drop off site.
46 Explore pedestrian & bike friendly routes
Parks and Environmental Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
December 7, 2020
Page 9
1 Joint meeting with Planning Commission
2 Explore water conservation initiatives working with Rice Creek and MWMO
3 watersheds, and partner with schools for water conservation poster contest.
4 Promote Arbor Day and Tree City activities in 2021, including outreach and
5 education to residents and city contractors about tree diversity, climate resiliency, and
6 proper planting techniques.
7 Promote 2021 Sustainability Fair at the Community Center.
8 Central Park solar demonstration project.
9
10 VII.COMMISSION REPORTS.
11
12 Ms. Palmer stated at the recent School Board Meeting it was announced there was a clean
13 audit. There has been a decline in enrollment by 62 students. The budget is based on
14 enrollment numbers. The District, with some funding from St. Anthony, has had engagement
15 circles. More information can be found on the website.
16
17 Mr. Gumke stated the City was awarded a healthy tree grant. The City will work with tree
18 trust on the plantings. A tree inventory will also be done.
19
20 VIII.OTHER BUSINESS.
21
22 Chair Bellinger spoke about the water poster contest. There was a good turnout and the
23 contest was successful. The entries are being judged. The winners will receive the awards
24 from the teachers. The winners will be posted in the next City newsletter.
25
26 IX.COMMUNITY FORUM – NONE.
27
28 X. ADJOURNMENT.
29
30 Motion by Commissioner Guest, seconded by Commissioner Reed, to adjourn the December
31 7, 2020 meeting of the Parks and Environmental Commission at 9:20 p.m.
32
33 Motion carried unanimously
34
35
36 Respectfully submitted,
37 Debbie Wolfe
38 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Silverwood Park
Saint Anthony, Mn
Alyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor
2500 County Road E West, St. Anthony, MN 55421
763-694-2084
Alyssa.Baguss@threeriversparks.org
The mission of Three
Rivers Park District is
to promote
environmental
stewardship through
recreation and
education in a natural
resources-based park
system. It
encompasses over
27,000 acres of parks
and trails and serves
millions of visitors
annually.
Winter Programs at Silverwood Park
Mid-Winter Melt, Feb 2nd, 2021
Ground Hog's Day celebration
On February 21st,
Silverwood teamed
up with The Drawing
Project for the
annual Drawing
with Mittens event!
RECONSTRUCTING THE RISE OF ASSYMETRICAL SKYLINES,
by Matthew Terry
March 11th –April 30th, 2021
NEW IN THE
GALLERY in 2021
CIRCULARITY
by Priya Thoresen
March 11th –April 30th, 2021
NEW IN THE
GALLERY in 2021
2021 Summer Camps
Silverwood Park
June –August
Registration opens
March 24th at 8 am
Silverwood Park
Reservations for 2022 opened on
January 4th
Weddings continue the COVID-19
restrictions in place
*NEW* Small
Gatherings
Package
•4 different spaces available
•Up to 50 people
•Outdoors only
•4 hour rental period
•Reduced pricing
•Available April-October
Silverwood Park Cafe
Open Tuesday and Friday-Sunday, 9 AM –5 PM
Limited indoor seating available
Enjoy local and organic coffee drinks, kombucha on tap, and
baked goods
Our forest bathing trail has
received its final, artist-designed
signage and certified designation
(becoming the first in the state!)
Natural History Trail
Explore the 8 new self-
guided stops to learn
about the landscape!
Silverwood Park
Saint Anthony, Mn
Alyssa Baguss, Silverwood Park Supervisor
2500 County Road E West, St. Anthony, MN 55421
763-694-2084
Alyssa.Baguss@threeriversparks.org
Citizens for
Sustainability
Parks &
Environmental
Commission Update
March 8, 2021
Citizens working to create a resilient and sustainable community
1.CFS 2021 Priorities
2.Organizing Sustainability Requests
3.Review Bike/Walk Opportunities
2
Agenda
3
CFS Priorities in 2021
Within
Government
Within
Schools
1H 2021 2H 2021
St. Anthony Collaborations
Within the
Community
Education / Outreach
Projects
Other Local and State Efforts
Education / Outreach
Wilshire Park Recycling Grant
Youth Stewardship Grant
Rain Garden Workshop
Earth Week at Wilshire
Earth Week at SAMS / SAHS
Central Park Solar Installation
Organics at Nativity / NCFC
Promote EV Charging at Local Business
EV Charging at Central Park
Projects
Support Friends of the Parks plantings
Support Anita Davis capstone
Expand Silver Point Park Plantings
Bike Path on golf course road
Henn. Co. Climate Action Plan feedback
2021 Priorities
MN350 –Clean Cars campaign
EV Outreach in Village Notes
Qtly Book Reviews
Columbia Heights Pollinator Resolution
Columbia Heights Environmental Commission
Advocate Minnesota Clean Car Standards
Pilot 1 Bike Boulevard
Advocate Sustainable Development
Nice Ride EV bikes in STAV Crossing County Rd C
Advocate Ramsey Co. 3-lane on 37th St
Trillium Park walking path
EV Car Show
Central Park solar collaboration
Tree Canopy planting at Faith
Pollinator Summit
Support 8th Grade Climate Curriculum
Support Green Team Students
Earth Day Clean-up
Earth Week Outreach
Vegetable Garden Workshop
Wetland Health Evaluation
Plan Kiwanis Collaboration
Support Green Corps application
Solar on Rooftop Workshop
4
Business Organics outreach VillageFest outreach
Sustainability Fair
COVID
pending
Decarbonization campaign
Grand Rounds evaluation
Within
Government
Within
Schools
1H 2021 2H 2021
St. Anthony Collaborations
Within the
Community
Education / Outreach
Projects
Other Local and State Efforts
Education / Outreach
Wilshire Park Recycling Grant
Youth Stewardship Grant
Rain Garden Workshop
Earth Week at Wilshire
Earth Week at SAMS / SAHS
Central Park Solar Installation
Organics at Nativity / NCFC
Promote EV Charging at Local Business
EV Charging at Central Park
Projects
Support Friends of the Parks plantings
Support Anita Davis capstone
Expand Silver Point Park Plantings
Bike Path on golf course road
Henn. Co. Climate Action Plan feedback
2021 Priorities
MN350 –Clean Cars campaign
EV Outreach in Village Notes
Qtly Book Reviews
Columbia Heights Pollinator Resolution
Columbia Heights Environmental Commission
Advocate Minnesota Clean Car Standards
Pilot 1 Bike Boulevard
Advocate Sustainable Development
Nice Ride EV bikes in STAV Crossing County Rd C
Advocate Ramsey Co. 3-lane on 37th St
Trillium Park walking path
EV Car Show
Central Park solar collaboration
Tree Canopy planting at Faith
Pollinator Summit
Support 8th Grade Climate Curriculum
Support Green Team Students
Earth Day Clean-up
Earth Week Outreach
Vegetable Garden Workshop
Wetland Health Evaluation
Plan Kiwanis Collaboration
Support Green Corps application
Solar on Rooftop Workshop
5
Business Organics outreach
VillageFest outreach
Sustainability Fair
COVID
pending
Decarbonization campaign
Grand Rounds evaluation
6
2021 Key Priorities in St. Anthony
Priority Status Support Needed
1 Community Outreach
•Decarbonization Campaign(s)
•Earth Day
•3 workshops
•Village Fest
•Sustainability Fair
•Providing feedback to Hennepin
County Climate Action Plan
•Advocating for MN Clean Car
Standards
•Planning safely-distanced Earth Day
clean-up initiatives
•Working with teachers and students
to plan Earth Week activities
•Provide feedback on Hennepin
County Climate Action Plan
•Plan Earth Day outreach
•Restart energy efficiency
campaign
•Promote Xcel Renewable
Connect and Windsource
programs
2 Central Park Solar Installation •Evaluating Central Park pavilion
opportunity
•Vendor developing proposal
•Approval of installation
•Cost of permitting process
•Evaluate expanding installation
3 Plant trees at Faith Methodist
Church
•Held kick-off meeting w/Henn. Co.
•Planning tree removal
•Identifying tree sources
•Join us to help plant trees
4 Improve biking and walking in
St. Anthony
•Evaluating Nice Ride in St. Anthony •Engage Mpls Park Board,
Hennepin Co., and Ramsey Co.
to evaluate and move
bike/walk initiatives forward
5 Expand plantings in Silver Point
park and connect a walking path
with Trillium park
•Friends of the Parks has developed a
proposal for next phase of plantings
•Water steward candidate Anita Davis
is planning clean water capstone
project
•Evaluate pathway and planting
opportunities and plan for
changes
7
Organizing Sustainability Requests
CO2
Emissions
Bike/Walk
Tree
Canopy
Other
P&E Commission City Staff
•Expand tree plantings in parks
and public spaces
•Promote residential tree
planting (Arbor Day, tree
offering)
•Evaluate tree planting
policies for solar access
considerations
Council
•Invite Dan Miller (Mpls Bike
Advisory Committee) to learn
about surrounding bike
connections
•Participate in regional Bike/Ped
planning entities
•Select 1 street to paint Bike
Boulevard striping and study
usage
•Install a walking path in Trillium
Park that connects to Silver
Point Park
•Engage Mpls Park Board to evaluate
Grand Round options and advocate
for bike path next to golf course
•Engage Hennepin Co. about safer
access to Diagonal and County Rd C
trails
•Engage Hennepin County about bike
connections via Stinson Blvd.
•Evaluate opportunity to build on
plans for 37th Ave
•Engage Ramsey Co. about 3-lane
traffic on County Road D
•Take up
recommendation
for EV car
charging in STAV
•Review city vehicle depreciation
to identify 1st EV purchase
•Evaluate low-carbon energy to
reduce city carbon footprint
•Evaluate solar installation in
Central Park
•Apply for Green Corps intern
•Address invasive species in
Parks and public spaces
•Take up plastic bag ban study
•Participate in West Metro
Cities Climate Action
Conversation
•Provide feedback on Henn. Co.
Climate Action Plan
•Plan/Promote Earth Day event
•Prioritize expanding
organic collection in
hauler contracts
CFS
-Provide outreach material
-Assist businesses in applying for grants
-Engage tree stewards to assist
-Research neighboring ordinances
-Provide climate related resources
-Plan walk/bike ride for commission
and council members to experience
challenges
-Identify potential bike boulevard
site
-Research Nice Ride station options
-Bring design ideas for pathway in
Trillium and Silver Point connection
-Contact Connie Bernardy to begin
/assist with Ramsey County
evaluation of County Road D traffic
flow
-Research grant opportunities
-Evaluate public EV charging
requirements and alternatives
-Organize EV car test drive
-Assist with Green Corps application
-Review policies for sustainability
refresh
-Audit parks, public, and private spaces
for invasive species problems
-Organize events to address problems
Comp Plan
Goal Area
•Restart energy efficiency
campaign
•Outreach to residents about
low-carbon energy supply
options (e.g. Excel Windsource)
Organizing Sustainability Requests by Role
(new requests)
9
Review of Bike/Walk Opportunities
10
Opportunity to Build on 37th Ave Work
Building on old and new ideas to improve pedestrian safety
2008: Wilshire Park parents identify 37th as significant risk for students walking to
school
2014: Safe Routes to School Plan calls for changes on 37th
2015: Ramsey County willing to evaluate 37th between Silver Lake Road and Old
Highway 8 for potential reduction to 3-lane road
January 2021: St. Anthony Goal Setting discussion
introduced concept of “Road Diet”, and identified
37 th as future opportunity
February 2021: Minneapolis and Columbia Heights
are reducing 37th to 3-lane with plans for trail
11
Pilot a Bicycle Boulevard on a City Street
What is a bicycle boulevard?
•Signs and pavement markings to
indicate a roadway is a shared, slow
street.
•Designed to give priority to bicyclists
as through-going traffic.
•Low-cost way to create a connected
network of streets with good
bicyclist comfort and safety.
What are the benefits of a bicycle boulevard?
•Differentiates bicycle boulevards from
other local streets.
•Reminds motorists driving on streets to
watch for bicyclists.
•Reinforces where bicyclists should be
riding in the roadway.
•Discourages cut-through-vehicle traffic and
allows local motor-vehicle traffic.
12
Improvements Noted in 2040 Comp Plan
•Various intersections
1.Kenzie Terrace/Silver Lake Rd. and St.
Anthony Blvd.
2.New Brighton Blvd. and St. Anthony
Blvd.
3.29th Ave. and New Brighton Blvd.
4.33rd Ave. and Hwy. 8/Highcrest Rd.
•Stinson Blvd. from St. Anthony Blvd. to 37th
Ave.
•New Brighton Blvd./Old Hwy. 8 from St.
Anthony Blvd. to 33rd Ave.
•29th Ave. from Stinson Blvd. to New Brighton
Blvd.
•Silver Lake Rd. from Silver Lane to County
Rd. E
•Maplewood Dr./Chelmsford Rd. between
Skycroft Dr. and 37th Ave.
•St. Anthony Blvd. from Stinson Blvd. to
Ridgway Pkwy.
2014/2015 COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
Successes / Assets
•Diagonal Trail, Silverwood Park, Wilshire Park School, Central Park, Silver Point
Park, Salo Park
•Sidewalks on Old Highway 8 and Highcrest road
•Lighted crosswalk on 34th and Silver Lake Road
Challenges
•St. Anthony not connected to bike/walk assets in surrounding communities
•Speeds are too high on residential streets with no sidewalks
•Crossing busy roads: Silver Lake Road, 37th Ave, Kenzie Terrace, Highway 88
•Inadequate bike racks and bus shelters
•No safe North/South or East/West routes through city (biking)
•St. Anthony in multiple counties, requires coordination with multiple jurisdictions
•County planning overlooks St. Anthony due to lack of Bike and Pedestrian Plans
* Informal surveys conducted at community events throughout 2014 and 2015
BIKE/WALK ST. ANTHONY (2015)
TARGET AREAS IDENTIFIED
Biking
•Bike path along Silver Lake Road to reach Silverwood Park and shopping centers
•Slower cars along Silver Lake Road and 37th Ave
•Connections to bike paths in neighboring cities
•Safe connections to Diagonal Trail
•Widen sidewalk along St. Anthony Blvd
•Add bike lane along St. Anthony Blvd from Stinson to the golf course
•Better bike route on Stinson south of St. Anthony Blvd
•Bike racks everywhere: city hall, businesses, schools, parks
•Continue Mpls style bike/pedestrian path on St. Anthony Blvd sidewalk or designate street bike path with signage indicating transition
•Link Stinson to Gateway Trail at Quarry
•Link 29th Ave and Cty. Rd C bike path
•Connect 29th Ave to Old Hwy 8
•Occasional "speed test locations" on paths
•Signage indicating average speed between two set points –a fun feature for kids and beginning bikers
•Signage indicating heavy grade on paths with hills
•Self Fix Stations
•24 hr. access to water, tire pump, and repair stand
Walking
•Lower speed limits on all residential streets with no sidewalks
•Safe crossing for kids walking to Wilshire from west of Silver Lake –ideally on 36th or 37th
•Drainage needed on path through Central Park
•Safe railroad crossing to reach Salo Park from the south (between Silver Lake and Stinson)*
•Sidewalk around east side of Trillium Park to 29th
•Better crossing needed across 29th on the west side of New Brighton Blvd
•Better crossing across Kenzie Terrace to get to SAV shopping center
•Better marking of crosswalks and repair uneven sidewalks and pavement along 39th Ave
•Stop sign at Wilson & W Armour
•More bus shelters –especially around Salo Park
•We need a safer crosswalk for the intersection of Silver Lane and Silver Lake Road *
•Sidewalk on Stinson north of 37th *
•Sidewalk along 37th Ave *
* to be addressed by 37th Ave Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project
BIKE/WALK ST. ANTHONY (2015)
Our children’s future
compels us to act quickly
on our goals to build a
resilient community.
16
Questions?
FRIENDS OF THE PARKS
Silver Point & Trillium Park Requests
March 8, 2021
1.A Brief History
2.Demonstration Gardens Approved in 2019
3.Work Plans for 2021
4.Request for Expanding Habitat in Silver Point
5.Request for Silver Point Gate and Pathway
6.Request for Trillium Park Pathway
7.2021 Water Steward Capstone Project
Friends of the Parks Agenda
A Brief History
2014: Minnesota focus on Bees and Monarchs
2015: CFS raises Pollinator Pathway idea
2016: St. Anthony Pollinator Pathway Grant
Installed 32 gardens
St. Anthony has taken a good first step in creating pollinator habitat
2018: Pollinator Protection Resolution
A Brief History
2018: Reconciliation Ecology
2018: Coffee with the Council
Autumn Woods’ residents expressed desire for
a place to walk and enjoy nature
2018: “Friends” turn out for Earth Day Cleanup in Trillium Park
2019: Friends of the Parks demonstration garden in Silver Point Park
And we are ready for the next step in sharing our green spaces with nature
Demonstration Gardens Approved in 2019
20’x60’ Flowering Lawn
20’x40’ Garden
Rain Garden Plantings
Work Completed to Date:
Sep 2019: Native Plug Garden
Nov 2019: Seeded Bee Lawn
Jun 2020: Seeded Garden
Cleanup & Refresh
•Reseed garden with annuals
•Overseed clover in bee lawn
•Post informational signs
Complete Phase 1
•Rain Garden Plantings
Work Plans for 2021
Design Silver Point Phase 2
1.Expand bee lawn
2.Transition turf to prairie planting
3.Add flowering trees and shrubs
1
2
3
1. Expand Bee Lawn
•Continue down hill
•Demonstrate technique of over-
planting existing turf
2. Transition South Hillside Turf to Prairie Planting
Planting Considerations
Design should allow for winter fun
3. Add Flowering Trees & Shrubs
Request for Silver Point Gate and Pathway
Gate at SE Corner
Posts already in place
Asphalt pathway
•Match current pathway
•Easier maintenance
Request for Trillium Park Pathway
1.Pathway maintenance
2.Increased foot traffic
3.Increased parking traffic
Considerations for Opening Connection
1.Neighboring house
2.Property easement
3.Pathway maintenance
4.Pedestrian safety
Questions?
2021 Water Steward Capstone Project
Anita Davis
St Charles 3rd Grader Takes 1st Place in Water Conservation Poster Contest
This past December the Parks and Environmental Commission hosted their annual Water Conservation Poster Contest. Those participating were the 3rd graders of St
Charles and 4th graders of Wilshire Elementary Schools. The criteria was to illustrate how one can “Save Water at Home”. Any drawing utensil could be utilized.
Students were limited to using an 8 x 11 sheet of paper. The judging was based on originality, creativity, and use of color. Gift certificates were awarded to each
winner and could be used at any 3 Rivers Parks.
The ideas presented by all were imaginative and thoughtful. It made it very difficult for us Commissioners to decide on who should win. The poster that really stood
out was 3rd grader, Bella Klements of St Charles. Her demonstration of both great color, placement, and clear water saving examples received a unanimous vote. The
remaining 2nd through 4th placements also illustrated unique and artistic ideas.
We would like to thank all of the participants and the teachers who aided in getting our contest distributed.
See if you can put into practice at home these winning and water saving ideas.
CONGRATULATIONS WINNERS!
1st Place—Bella Klement, 3rd Grade-St Charles
2nd Place—Eli Jordahl Redlin, 4th Grade-Wilshire
3rd Place—Elizabeth Mandyck, 4th Grade-Wilshire
Runner Up and “Best Original”—Addie Blenkush, 4th Grade-Wilshire
Chosen for
most colorful,
clear, and
concise.
Judges notes:
Eli’s message
that “every
drop counts” is
a great way to
illustrate the
importance of
our water
Judges notes:
The Energy Star
notation
increased our
“Save Water At
Home” list. Very
impressive.
Judges notes:
Addie’s use of a
floor plan was
a clever way to
convey water
saving options
in the home
Judges notes: