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HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 25, 2001 CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA KEYES ROOM, JOHN P. MURZYN HALL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2001 6:30 P.M. The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs or activities. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights' services, programs and activities. Auxiliary aids for handicapped persons are available upon request when the request is made at least 96 hours in advance. Please call the City Council Secretary at 706- 3611, to make arrangements. (TDD/706-3692 for deaf only). 1. ROI.I, CAI J. CONSENT AGENDA 3.(****) 4.(****) 5. All items listed with asterisks (****) are considered to be routine by the Park & Recreation Commission and will be enacted as part of the consent agenda by one motion. APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 28, 2001 MINUTES APPROVAL PAYMENT OF BIIJ.S LETrERS AND REQUESTS A. OLD TIMERS Bob Soberholm of the Old Timers, will be attending to request fees waived for April 28, 2002. OLD BUSINESS Bo RETAINING WALL FOR SOUTHEAST CORNER OF JPM Public Works Director/City Engineer, Kevin Hansen, will review plans and modular block color selection. Plans and block samples will be available at the meeting. 2001 OUTDOOR RECREATION GRANT APPLICATION Public Works Director/City Engineer, Kevin Hansen, will review the outdoor recreation grant application information. PAGE TWO 7. o NEW BUSINESS A. REVIEW AND UPDATE PARKS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Attached is the Parks Capital Improvement Plan update. SUIJJVAN PARK HOUSE-RESHINGLE ROOF Staff is requesting authorization to seek bids to reshingle the Sullivan building. This project is budgeted for 2001 for the amount of $6000.00. MURZYN HAl J, WOOD FLOOR REFINISHING Recreation Director, Keith Windschitl, will discuss possible options for refinishing the main hall wood floor. REPORTS A. Recreation Director B. Public Works Director/City Engineer C. Commission Members ADJOURNMENT P&RCOMM: AGENDA-APR01 THESE MINUTES HAVE EE'N City of Columbia Heights Park and Recreation Commission February 28, 2001 The meeting was called to order by Eileen Evans at 6:33 p.m. ROLl. CALL Members present: Members absent: Also present: APP 'OVED Eileen Evans; Jerry Foss; Bruce Magnuson; Roger Peterson; Bob Ruettimann; Keith Windschitl, Recreation Director; Kevin Hansen, Public Works Director/City Engineer Gary Mayer; Scott Niemeyer; Gary Peterson; APPROVAL CONSENT AGENDA Motion by Foss, second by Magnuson to approve the consent agenda. All ayes, motion carded. LETTERS AND REQUESTS COLUMBIA HEIGHTS WOMEN OF TODAY Columbia Heights Women of Today submitted a letter of request to waive the fees for a Silly Supper for 6n, 7th, and 8th grade students, to be held on Friday, March 16, 2001. Commission Member, Eileen Evans, feels that the $40.00 entry fee and $15.00 per hour policy that has already been previously established should be enforced so to not set a precedence for weekend rentals. Motion by R. Peterson, second by Ruettimann to waive hall rental fee of $550.00 and follow the Murzyn Hall policy of $40.00 entry fee and $15.00 per hour. All ayes, motion carried. THE ASSOCIATION FOR WOMEN IN COMMUNICATIONS The Association for Women in Communications, based out of Eagan, submitted a letter of request to waive the fees for a silent auction to be held on Wednesday, April 4, 2001. Commission Members felt this organization does not meet the policy qualifications requiring that at least 50% of an organization's members must reside in Columbia Heights. Motion by Foss, second by Ruettimann to deny the request for fees waived. All ayes, motion carded. PAGE TWO POLISH AMERICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE OF MINNESOTA The Polish American Cultural Institute of Minnesota, located in Northeast Minneapolis, submitted a letter of request to receive non-profit rates of $40.00 entry fee and $15.00 per hour for a Paczki Ball, to be held on Saturday, February 9, 2002. Recreation Director, Keith Windschitl, stated that approximately 10% of the membership resides in Columbia Heights, and Bernie Szymczak is an active member of this organization. Members felt that this organization does not meet the criteria due to the fact that 50% of the membership does not reside in Columbia Heights. Motion by Evans, second by Foss to deny the request for non-profit rates. All ayes, motion carried. OLD BUSINESS There is no old business at this time NEW BUSINESS COLUMBIA HEIGHTS SCHOOL DISTRICT USE OF MURZYN HALL AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES Recreation Director, Keith Windschitl, explained to the Park and Recreation Members the Facility Report which was requested by Commission Member, Bob Ruettimann. The report contains statistics of the Columbia Heights School District use of Murzyn Hall in 2000 and the Recreation Department use of School Facilities for the past year. The Columbia Heights schools were able to use Murzyn Hall on all of the requested dates at no cost to them, with the exception of the Football banquet which was charged in accordance to the new policy. The schools use of Murzyn Hall was 1229.50 hours in 2000. He also stated the Recreation Department, in the past year, had been turned down for using the schools facilities on many occasions. The Recreation Department used the school facilities 570 hours during the past year. Motion by Ruettimann, second by Foss to submit a letter directing to the City Manager and the Mayor to request a meeting with Community Education, Superintendent, Athletic Director, Chair from the Park and Recreation Commission, the City Manager, and the Mayor to discuss both parties concerns of the facilities. All ayes, motion carded. CONSIDER ORDERING BI.EACHERS FOR REMAINING PARKS Public Works Director/City Engineer, Kevin Hansen, addressed the current bleacher needs for Columbia Heights parks. He stated that of the eleven sets of bleachers in Columbia Heights parks, only four need to be replaced this year. Motion by Ruettiman, second by Magnuson to make a recommendation to obtain authorization to order the four bleachers for Huset Park in the amount of $11,756.92 to be put on the next City Council Meeting. All ayes, motion carded. PAGE THREE BACK TO THE PARKS BUDGET FOR 2001 Recreation Director, Keith Windschitl, addressed the possible use of monies budgeted for the Back to the Parks Budget for 2001. The City Manager cut the $10,000 budgeted in the Back to the Parks Budget. The City Council put the money back in for a possible skate Park. Commission Member, Bob Ruettimann, stated that the Back to the Parks Budget was never intended for park facilities. The money that the community would raise for gazebos, park benches, walking paths, etc. would be matched dollar for dollar by the Back to the Parks Budget. The thought was that people would take an ownership of the parks. REPORTS RECREATION DIRECTOR Recreation Director, Keith Windschitl, spoke with Red Nelson who is on the Met Council and serves on the Park and Open Spaces Commission. Red Nelson has been urging Hennepin County Parks to purchase the Salvation Army Camp and turn it into a nature park along with saving Silver Lake. Several options were mentioned regarding Silver Lake Beach if Hennepin County does purchase the Salvation Army Camp. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER Public Works Director/City Engineer, Kevin Hansen, reported that the attendance was up at the skate rinks this winter along with it being the longest open season in three to four years. The skate rinks will close for the winter season on March 4, 2001. COMMISSION MEMBERS Commission Member, Jerry Foss, inquired whether or not the Council waived the fees for the Taste of Columbia Heights. Recreation Director, Keith Windschitl, stated that the fee has been waived by the City Council. Motion by Foss, second by Magnuson to adjourn. All ayes, motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 7:42 p.m. Tina Foss, Park and Recreation Commission Secretary ;~-d g/.,8;~-;~8/. {;~I9} S)I~IOR 31-18nd e/.,t,:SO IO Si ,~ew EXPENSES - MURZYN HALL - FEBRUARY, 2001 DATE VENDOR ITEM COST ACCOUNT 12-Feb Hospitality supply trash cans $22.26 2171 12-Feb Hospitality supply trash cans $29.68 2171 12-Feb Clark products floor signs $21.50 2171 12-Feb Goodin water cooler parts $31.35 2171 12-Feb ADI alarm communicator $295.69 2171 12-Feb Voss lighting socket extensions $23.10 2171 12-Feb Menards paint, silicone $16.95 2171 14-Feb Brin Glass Co. weatherstriping $15.52 2171 26-Feb She[win Williams bath partitions paint $33.61 2171 26-Feb Menards ceiling tile $33.76 2171 26-Feb Menards tool hangers $25.38 2171 26-Feb Menards fittings for water cooler $6.54 2171 26-Feb Menards fittings for water cooler $8.99 2171 26-Feb Menards p trap $5.75 2171 26-Feb Menards durabond $17.93 2171 26-Feb Menards plug cement $24.80 2171 26-Feb Office Depot print cartridge $68.18 2171 28-Feb iHome Depot tape, pipe hangers, elbow $45.63 2171 28-Feb Home Depot mops, dolly, scraper $45.09 2171 28-Feb Home Depot jack, fittings, contact cement $30.77 2171 28-Feb Home Depot roller covers, brass adapter $24.34' 2171 12-Feb Pepsi 25 gallons pre-mix $85.00 2990 12-Feb Lube Tech kerosene $159.78 4000 12-Feb State of MN sales tax $378.94 4395 TOTAL $1,450.54 EXPENSES - MURZYN HALL - MARCH, 2001 DATE VENDOR ITEM COST ACCOUNT 7-Mar iHome Depot parts for coffee brewer $46.50 2160 12-Mar Gardener Hardwere smoke seal $34.00 2160 12-Mar Doyle Security storeroom locks $53.37 2160 13-Jan Home Depot copper pipes $13.95 2160 19-Jan Home Depot 1.5" copper pipes $19.50 2160 12-Mar Home Depot solder $10.59 2160 12-Mar Home Depot couplers $5.80 2160 14-Mar Home Depot couplers $3.40 2160 12-Mar Home Depot mapp gas $7.97 2160 12-Mar Target elevator telephone $9.99 2160 28-Mar Specialty Sales partition door $126.00 2160 12-Mar Tacony corp. cfr cemicals $202.00 2171 12-Mar Victory Corps flag pole $33.50 2171 12-Mar Northern Sanitary vac. Belts $25.20 2171 12-Mar Metro Welding helium $169.75 2171 12-Mar Ace Hardware glass $18.79 2171 12-Mar Pepsi 25 gallons pre-mix $85.00 2990 12-Mar Pepsi 35 gallons pre-mix $119.00 2990 12-Mar Pepsi 20 lb tank co2 $90.00 2990 26-Mar Pepsi 35 gallons pre-mix $119.00 2990 28-Mar State of MN Sales tax $363.33 4395 TOTAL $1,556.64 PUBLIC WORKS · CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 637 38TH AVENUE N. E, COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, MN 5Eu~I.2 !-3806 (763) 706-3700 FAX 706-3701 March 28, 2001 CENTRAL GARAGE · SEWER/WATER · ENGINEERING · STREETS · PARKS Ms. Audrey Mularie Local Grants Program Manager Department of Natural Resources Office of Management and Budget Services 500 Lafayette Road, Box l0 St. Paul, MN 55155-4010 Outdoor Recreation Grant Application Submittal Silver Lake Boat Landing Improvements (Resubmittai) Columbia Heights, Minnesota Dear Ms. Mularie: Please find enclosed a copy of an Outdoor Recreation Grant Program Application submittal for proposed improvements to the Silver Lake Boat Landing in the City of Columbia Heights. All information requested as a part of the Grant Application Form has been provided for your review and consideration. Upon further review, I have not changed this application and it remains the same as the one submitted to you in 2000. Because the grant application has remained the same, the City of Columbia Heights did not hold new public hearings in 2001, the information from the hearing held in 2000 in included in this application. The City of Columbia Heights is an older, inner-ring suburb that regularly deals with issues of aging and outdated infrastructure and facilities. The Outdoor Recreation Grant Program would provide funds in 2001 or 2002 to address these issues within four particular parks: Prestemon Park Ramsdell Park Silver Lake Beach · Silver Lake Boat Landing The City of Columbia Heights is resubmitting two Grant Applications in 2001, and by our previous discussions, two were retained from the 2000 round by the DNR for consideration in 2001. The City's priority list for park improvements, and thus grant funding is as follows: 1. Prestemon Park 2. Ramsdell Park 3. Silver Lake Beach 4. Silver Lake Boat Landing Once you have reviewed these applications, I would be happy to address any questions on behalf of the City of Columbia Heights. My direct dial numbers are: Phone: Fax: e-mail: (763) 706-3705 (763) 706-3701 Kevin. HansenCC_,ci.columbi-heights.mn.us THE CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES "SERVICE IS OUR E) t.J$iNEE~S" E~IJAL. O~PORTUNITY EMPLOYER TDD (763) 706-3092 Letter to MN Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Recreation Grant Program March 28, 2001 Page 2 Awarding grants to the City of Columbia Heights would be a strong step in supporting the City's continuing efforts at park rehabilitation and improvements. Sincerely, Public Works Director/City Engineer Attachment: KH:kh Cc: Outdoor Recreation Grant Program Application Walt Fehst, City Manager Park & Recreation Commission MEMO CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: Parks and Recreation Commission Kevin Hansen, Director of Public Work~ April 19, 2001 for Commission meeting of April 19, 2001. PARKS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN UPDATE In 1999, a Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) was prepared by staff and reviewed with the Park & Recreation Commission. It has been two years since the Parks CIP has been updated. Since that time the City has reviewed and updated the City of Columbia Heights Comprehensive Plan. A copy of the Parks section of that plan is attached for reference. A copy of the 1999 5-year Parks CIP is also attached for reference. In 2000, staff was directed to update and complete the CIP for the entire City. Staff subsequently purchased a software program for CIP maintenance and reporting and is in the process of compiling information in that database. The program provides for ease of input along with ease of updating and tracking. For purposes of an initial update review by the Commission, it should be noted that the City Council directed staff to only include items in the CIP with a dollar value over $10,000. This will remove many of the items from the 1999 listing. Staff is requesting that the existing plan be reviewed by the Commission and updated prior to the 2002 City Budget session beginning in June. Items may be moved in terms of years, or new items may be added to the listing during the review process. As the total dollar amount indicates, the total estimated cost of improvements far exceeds the capabilities of the City to currently fund all improvements, so prioritizing each years recommendations becomes very important. Commission members may want to bring the draft version of the Comprehensive Park System Plan, dated August, 1996, and distributed to the Park and Recreation Commission at their August, 1998 regular meeting to this meeting. I will have extra copies of that System Plan available at the April 25, 2001 meeting. I would expect this type of review to take at least two meetings, to reorganize, update, and prioritize the Parks CIP listings. From the discussion at this meeting, I would ask for Commissioner requests and direction on CIP projects. I will then take that information back to Parks staff for additional input with the intent of having a 2001-updated version at the next meeting. Information is presented herein for discussion purposes only; no action is requested of the commission at this time. KRH:kh f/PW 1/kevinh/parks/P&R_mtg/2001 CIP review.doc CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 1998-2003 Prepared by Public Works 4/19/01 SUMMARY LISTING BY DEPARTMENT AND YEAR OF REQUEST PARKS DEPARTMENT: 1998 ITEM PROJECT PARK IMPROVEMENT NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 PL-98-45200-01 ALL 2 PL-98-45200-02 ALL 3 PI-98-45200-01 HART LAKE 4 PI-98-45200-02 HILLTOP 5 PI-98-45200-03 HUSET EAST & WEST 6 PI-98-45200-04 HUSET EAST 7 PI-98-45200-05 HUSET EAST 8 MA-98-45200-01 HUSET WEST 9 MA-98-45200-02 HUSET WEST 10 PI-98-45200-06 KEYS 11 PI-98-45200-07 KEYS 12 PI-98.-45200-08 KEYS 13 PI-98-45200-09 LABELLE 14 PI-98-45200-10 LABELLE 15 PI-98-45200-11 LABELLE 16 PI-98-45200-12 LABELLE 17 MA-98-45200-03 18 PI-98-45200-13 19 PI-98-45200-14 20 PI-98-45200-15 21 PI-98-45200-16 22 PI-98-45200-17 23 PI-98-45200-18 24 PI-98-45200-19 25 PI-98-45200-20 26 PI-98-45200-21 McKENNA OSTRANDER PRESTEMON RAMSDELL SILVER LAKE BEACH SILVER LAKE BEACH DEVELOP AND ADOPT A CIP DEVELOP OVERALL TRAIL CONNECTION PLAN EROSION CONTROL: Westside of lake slope TREE PLANTING PAINT PARKING LOT SPACES RECONSTRUCT PLAYGROUND REPLACE PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT PARKING LOT: Repair damaged light pole behind JPM. REMOVE / REGRADE GRASS FROM BASEBALL INFIELD OVERLAY AND LEVEL HOCKEY RINK RESHINGLE ROOF TREE PLANTING ADDRESS WATER QUALITY ISSUES PATHWAY: Develop alt. route or remove steps PATHWAY: Extend path on east side to meet south side PATHWAY: Widen and repave bituminous path on west side from 40th to 41st PAINT HOCKEY RINK LIGHT POLES RESHINGLE ROOF NEW PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT: Install REPLACE WARMING HOUSE DOORS DNR: Install Aerator for water quality purposes RESHINGLE ROOF SILVER LAKE BOAT LNE RECONSTRUCT BOAT LANDING SULLIVAN PATHWAY SIGNS: Improve delineation SULLIVAN TRIM TREES AROUND LAKE WARGO COURT ELECTRICAL: Upgrade service for Christmas decorations. TOTAL 1998: PARKS DEPARTMENT: 1999 ITEM PROJECT NO. NO. ESTIMATED COST I PL-99-45200-01 2 PI-99-45200-01 3 PI-99-45200-02 4 PI-99-45200-03 5 PI-99-45200-04 staff staff 6,000 4,000 4,000 3,000 22,000 3,000 1,800 4,000 5,500 3,000 5,000 5,000 25,000 10,000 4,000 5,500 40,000 4,000 30,000 5,500 25,000 1,500 2,000 3,000 221,800 PARK IMPROVEMENT ESTIMATED DESCRIPTION COST ALL Implement overall trail connection plan (Phase I) 25,000 EDGEMOOR TREE PLANTING: Plant spice trees along south 4,000 fence line. GAUVITTE RETAINING WALL: Remove or Replace 8,000 HUSET EAST Reconstruct Park House building 80,000 HUSET EAST, WEST UPGRADE BALLFIELDS: Bleacher Safety Issues & 60,000 Backstop and player bench areas. ADD BATTING CAGE 3,500 RECONSTRUCT TENNIS COURTS 35,000 REMOVE RAILROAD TRACKS 45,000 UPDATE WATER FOUNTAIN 5,000 ADD LANDSCAPING 30,000 CORRECT DRAINAGE @ REAR ENTRY 10,000 ACCESS: Add steps from cul-de-sac to building 2,500 ADD BUILDING SECURITY LIGHTING 1,600 DEVELOP PICNIC AREA 34,000 REPLACE BUILDING DOORS AND WINDOWS 5,000 UTILIZATION PLAN FOR N & S ENDS OF PARK 4,000 CONSTRUCT STORM WATER RETENTION BASlI~ 135,000 RECONSTRUCT TENNIS COURTS 35,000 RECONSTRUCT &EXTEND PATHWAYS RECONSTRUCT PLAYGROUND AREA RECONSTRUCT HOCKEY RINK RECONSTRUCT TENNIS COURTS 6 PI-99-45200-05 HUSET WEST 7 PI-99-45200-06 HUSET WEST 8 PI-99-45200-07 HUSET WEST 9 PI-99-45200-08 HUSET WEST 10 PI-99-45200-09 JPM 11 PI-99-45200-10 JPM 12 PI-99-45200-11 KEYS 13 PI-99-45200-12 KEYS 14 PI-99-45200-13 KEYS 15 PI-99-45200-14 KEYS 16 PL-99-45200-02 LOMIANKI 17 PI-99-45200-15 PRESTEMON 18 PI-99-45200-16 PRESTEMON TOTAL 1999: 19 PI-99-45200-17 PRESTEMON 20 PI-99-45200-18 PRESTEMON 21 PI-99-45200-21 RAMSDELL 22 PI-99-45200-22 SULLIVAN 20,000 40,000 6,000 25,000 613,600 FUNDING SOURCES 101 101 101 412 412 101 412 101 101 101 412 412 101 101 412 412 101 412 412 412 412 412 412 101 412 101 REMARKS DNR Matching Gran DNR Matching Gran DNR Matching Gran FUNDING SOURCES REMARKS 412, 402 412 412 412 412 101 412 212 412 412 412 101 101 412 412 101 403 DNR Grant Funds 412 412 DNR Grant Funds 412 DNR Grant Funds 101 412 Page 1 of 3 Prepared by Public Works 4/19/01 PARKS DEPARTMENT: 2000 ITEM PROJECT NO. NO. I PI-00-45200-01 2 PI-00-45200-02 3 PI-00-45200-03 4 PI-00-45200-04 5 PI-O0-45200-05 6 PL-00-45200-01 PARK ALL ALL ALL EDGEMOOR GAUVITTE GAUVITTE 7 P1-00-45200-06 HART LAKE 8 P1-00-45200-07 HART LAKE 9 P1-00-45200-08 HUSET EAST 10 PI-00-45200-09 HUSET WEST 11 P~-00-45200-10 HUSET WEST 12 P1-00-45200-11 HUSET WEST 13 P1-00-45200-12 HUSET WEST 14 PI-00-45200-13 HUSET WEST 15 CF-00-45200-01 HUSET WEST 16 PI-00-45200-14 LABELLE 17 P1-00-45200-15 LIONS 18 PI-00-45200-16 PRESTEMON 19 PI-00-45200-17 RAMSDELL 20 PI-00-45200-18 SULLIVAN 21 PI-00-45200-19 SULLIVAN PARKS DEPARTMENT:2001 ITEM PROJECT NO. NO. I P1~1~5~0~1 2 P1~1~5200~2 3 P1~1~5~0~3 4 P1~1~5~0-04 PARK ALL ALL GAUVITTE HUSET EAST 5 PI-01-452o0-05 HUSET EAST 6 PL-01-45200-01 HUSET WEST 7 PI-Ol-452OO-O6 HUSET WEST 8 PI-01-45200-07 9 PI-01-45200-08 10 PI-01-45200-09 11 PI-01-45200-10 12 PI-01-45200-11 HUSET WEST KEYS KEYS LABELLE LABELLE 14 PI-01-45200-12 LOMIANKI 15 PI-01-45200-13 LOMIANKI 16 PI-01-45200-14 McKENNA 17 P1-01-45200-15 MSC YARD 18 PI-01-45200-16 OSTRANDER 19 PI-01-45200-17 RAMSDELL 20 PI-01-45200-18 SULLIVAN 21 PI-01-45200-19 WARGO IMPROVEMENT ESTIMATED DESCRIPTION COST Implement overall trail connection plan (Phase II) 25,000 Bleacher Safety Improvements 20,000 UPGRADE DRINKING FOUNTAINS 10,000 CONSTRUCT PICNIC SHELTER 12,000 REPLACE BASKETBALL BACKBOARDS 3,000 EVALUATE LAND PURCHASE FOR IMPROVING 5,000 PARK ACCESS LANDSCAPE 37TH AND ARTHUR 10,000 UPDATE STREET LIGHTING 6,000 CONSTRUCT PICNIC SHELTER BY PLAYGROUNI 33,000 RECONSTRUCT WADING POOL 95,000 LANDSCAPE JPM UPPER PARKING LOT 2,000 RECONSTRUCT OR DEMOLISH THE BANDSHELI. 20,000 RECONSTRUCT SHRUB BED @ EAST END OF JF 12,000 RECONSTRUCT PLAYGROUND 40,000 CONSTRUCT MULTI-USE BUILDING 2,015,000 RECONSTRUCT RETAINING WALL AND BENCHE 25,000 around decorative water fountain MAINTAIN AS A GATEWAY TO THE CITY 5,000 UPGRADE BALLFIELD: Backstop and player 15,000 bench area. LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS 40,000 RECONSTRUCT PLAYGROUND 40,000 RECONSTRUCT PICNIC SHELTER 70,000 TOTAL 2000: 488,000 IMPROVEMENT ESTIMATED DESCRIPTION COST Implement overall trail connection plan (Phase III) 25,000 PROVIDE ELECTRICAL OUTLETS @ FIELDS 1,500 INSTALL BLEACHERS 3,000 FIELD REALIGNMENT: Football field near volley 130,000 ball courts w/lights; move volley ball court. RESURFACE PARKING LOT 12,000 DEVELOP AREA BY RAILROAD TRACKS staff CONSTRUCT PICNIC SHELTER WEST OF 25,000 TENNIS COURTS PROVIDE WALKING PATH AROUND PARK 15,000 BALLFIELD LIGHTING 35,000 REGRADE BALLFIELDS 60,000 RECONSTRUCT RETAINING WALL @ BB COURT 40,000 REPLACE WARMING HOUSE W/PICNIC SHELTEI 30,000 WARMING HOUSE COMBO REMOVALS: BASKETBALL CRT & TENNIS CRT 10,000 RECONSTRUCT VOLLEY BALL COURT 3,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE 30,000 COVERED ROOF TO SALT STORAGE BLDG 6,000 FOR COVERED STORAGE AREA ADD EXTERIOR BUILDING LIGHTING 3,000 RECONSTRUCT WADING POOL 85,000 RECONSTRUCT AND WI DEN PATHWAY 65,000 UPGRADE LANDSCAPING 5,000 TOTAL 2001: 583,500 FUNDING SOURCES REMARKS 412, 402 412 412 412 101 101 412 412 412 412 DNR Grant Funds 101 412 412 412 DNR Grant Funds other Bond Referendum 412 DNR Grant Funds 101 412 412 Regrade Park 412 412 ADD: 2,000,000 for Multi-Use Center FUNDING SOURCES REMARKS 412, 402 101 101 412 412 101 412 DNR Grant Funds 412 412 412 412 412 101 101 412 101 101 412 412 101 Page 2 of 3 Prepared by Public Works 4/19/01 PARKS DEPARTMENT: 2002 ITEM PROJECT NO. NO. PARK I P1-02-45200-01 GAUVI'I-I'E 2 PI-02-45200-02 HUSET WEST 3 P1-02-45200-03 LABELLE 4 PL-02-45200-01 LABELLE 5 PI-02-45200-04 LOMIANKI 6 PI-02-45200-05 LOMIANKI 8 PI-02-45200-O6 MCKENNA 9 PI-02-45200-07 McKENNA 10 P1-02-45200-08 McKENNA 13 PI-02-45200-09 OSTRANDER 15 PI-02-45200-11 PRESTEMON 16 PI-02-45200-12 RAMSDELL 17 P1-02-45200-13 RAMSDELL 18 PI-02~5200-14 SULLIVAN PARKS DEPARTMENT: 2003 ITEM PROJECT NO, NO, PARK 1 P1-03-45200-01 GAUVITTE 2 P1-03-45200-02 LABELLE 3 P1~3-4520~03 LABELLE 4 P1-03-45200-04 LABELLE 5 PI-03-45200-05 McKENNA 6 P1-03-45200-06 SULLIVAN 7 P1-03-45200-07 SULLIVAN 8 PI-03-45200-08 SULLIVAN IMPROVEMENT ESTIMATED DESCRIPTION COST BUILDING MAINTENANCE 4,000 RECONSTRUCT BALLFIELDS 185,000 REPLACE DOCK & RETAINING WALLS ON WEST 110,000 SIDE OF POND EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE PLANTING AREA 6,000 REPLACE LIGHTING: Along west fence line 6,000 RECONSTRUCT SOFTBALL FIELD 20,000 RECONSTRUCT WADING POOL 85,000 CONSTRUCT PARKING AREA 20,000 RECONSTRUCT HOCKEY RINK 15,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE 7,500 EVALUATE BUILDING USE & NEED 10,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE 10,000 REGRADE SOFTBALL AND SKATING AREA 35,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE 20,000 TOTAL 2002: 533,500 IMPROVEMENT ESTIMATED DESCRIPTION COST RECONSTRUCT HOCKEY RINK 12,000 RECONSTRUCT SCENIC OVERLOOK ON 40TH 15,000 RESURFACE BASKETBALL COURT 10,000 IMPROVE PATHWAY LIGHTING: Install lights on 15,000 east side of park CONSTRUCT PICNIC SHELTER 30,000 RECONSTRUCT RETAINING WALL: South side 15,000 of lake REPLACE BENCHES ALONG PATHWAY 3,000 RECONSTRUCT IRRIGATION SYSTEM 10,000 TOTAL 2003: 110,000 TOTAL PARKS: 2,550,400 FUNDING SOURCES REMARKS 101 412 412 101 412 412 412 412 412 412 412 412 412 412 FUNDING SOURCES REMARKS 412 412 412 412 412 412 101 412 Page 3 of 3 CAPITAL PLAN City of Columbia Heights, MN DEPARTMENT 2000 thru 2004 Department 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Total Parks 688,600 568,000 693,500 533,500 110,000 2,593,600 Total 688,600 568,000 693,500 533,500 110,000 2,593,600 Page 1 of 1 Wednesday, dune 28, 2000 20¢N) COMP PLAN UPDATE '10. PARK AND OPEN SPA CE PLAN INTRODUCTION In order to guarantee that local parks, trails and open spaces conform to the regional recreational system, all municipalities within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area are required to complete a park and open space development plan as part of their comprehensive planning efforts. Providing a comprehensive approach to recreation facilities in the metropolitan region will help minimize unnecessary costs, provide an inventory of all facilities and present the best possible recreational system for the region. The City of Columbia Heights also recogniZes that parks, trails, public open space and other recreational opportunities are essential elements in creating a strong sense of community. For this reason, this Plan will also provide a framework to ensure that development and redevelopment of local parks, trails and open spaces meet the needs of Columbia Heights' residents and provide linkages throughout the community. This Plan, which includes information from the City's 1996 Comprehensive Park System Plan, also provides the basic information necessary to understand park, trail and open space issues in the community. The purpose of the park and open space plan is to ensure that all parks and open areas within the community remain clean, safe, accessible to all, and up-to-date to best serve the residents as well as improving the quality of life in Columbia Heights. HISTORICAL CONTEXT The City of Columbia Heights park system was formally established in 1939 with the acquisition of 60 acres of land bounded by 37th Avenue on the south, 40th Avenue on the north, 5th Street on the west, and Quincy Street on the east. A portion of this area, which at one time served as a spring-fed pasture for cows and horses, is now occupied the City's first park - Huset Park. As development increased, the City became actively involved in the expansion of the Columbia Heights park system by acquiring "leftover" parcels of land that were converted into municipal parks. As with many communities encouraging development during this time period, the City often accepted and/or purchased swampy, unstable, and often unbuildable land for parks. Since the community is fully developed, the City now has the challenge of redeveloping these parks into parks and open space that meet the current needs of Columbia Heights' residents. The City of Columbia Heights currently operates a park system containing 14 municipal parks ranging from in size from less than 1 acre to 28 acres. Serving as the backbone of the community, the park system offers essential recreation and leisure opportunities that are available to all residents of the community. These include organized activities such as baseball, softball, basketball, and hockey, as well as less structured activities such as skating, biking, picnicking, walking and running. 113 COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS AND DEMOGRAPHICS As stated elsewhere' in the'City's Comprehensive Plan, the population of Columbia Heights is predicted to increase slightly,over the neXf~[fi~'~t'~S'~as well as to generally increase in age. By the year 2020, the community will include~19,500 individuals living in 8,200 households. According to the Metropolitan Council, there will be a significant increase inpefsOnS over the age of 55 and 'a slight decrease in persons age 25 to 54 in the community. This shift in demographics suggests an increase in demand for more passive park facilities, such as walking trails, picnic areas and scenic areas. The current development pattern and existing park features within Columbia Heights represents that of a typical urban community. The 14 municipal parks and one regional park within the community provide the residents with both passive and active recreational oppommities. Residential development is the dominant land use in Columbia Heights with 67 percent of the land area, while parks and open spaces occupy approximately 6 percent of the land area. The majority of the community's park facilities are located near residential development. INVENTORY AND REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE The location of the community's 14 municipal parks and the one regional park, which represent a total area of 112 acres, are shown in Figure 10-1. Table 10-1 lists the municipal parks within Columbia Heights, including the size (in acres) and facilities within each park. As a result of the existing urban character of the City, the majority of parks have a limited amount of natural resource amenities. In addition, most of the parks provide passive rather than active recreation activities. Huset Park, which is the largest municil~2: park with 22 acres, provides a mix of passive recreation and organized athletic fields. This'i~k is located adjacent to City Hall and will become the "central park" of the community upon completion of the Community Center mixed-use redevelopment. All other parks within the community are less than 20 acres in size and provide passive recreation to neighborhoods in close proximity to the park facilities. A few open space and recreational facilities also exist adjacent to schools and usually provide for more active sporting events and playground equipment. Both the high school and the middle school grounds within the community include such facilities. There is also one regional park in the community. Albert A. Kordiak Park, located on 14 acres in the northeast comer of Columbia Heights, provides walking and hiking trails, picnic facilities and a limited amount of space for active recreation. This park surrounds Highland Lake and contains some woodlands and other natural resource amenities unavailable in other parks within Columbia Heights. Albert A Kordiak Park is also located adjacent to the Columbia Heights High School and Highland Elementary School, providing good opportunities for extended classroom learning experiences. While relatively small for a regional park, Kordiak Park is also complemented by the close proximity of Curt Ramsdell Park, which includes an additional five acres of park space. 114 December 1999 2 0 2 4 Miles Existing Park Locations Columbia Heights Comprehensive Plan FIGURE 10-1 TABLE '10-1 EXISTING PARK FACILITIES INVENTORY CITY PARJ~S .~ ~ ~< ~ o < .~ o o ~, <5 < < < Edgemoor 2.6 X Oauvitte 16 X X X X X X X X X X Hilltop I X X X Huset 28 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Keyes 16 X X X X X X X X X X X X LaBelle 20 X X X X X X X X Lomianki 2 X X X X X X X X X X Ramsdell 8 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X McKerma 8.5 X X X X X X X X X X' X Ostrander 3 X X X X X X X Prestemon 5 X X X X X X X X X X Silver Lake 5 X X X X X X Sullivan Lake 8 X X X X X X X X Wargo Court TOTAL 121 6 6 8 9 5 6 3 4 4 4 3 13 10 11 10 8 5* Source: Comprehensive Park System Plan, 1996 * The five pathways include 4.5 miles 116 CLASSIFICATION AND STANDARDS The City of Columbia Heights has developed a park classification system to aid in determining future demand and to provide a better understanding of current facilities within the City's jurisdiction. Each of the park classifications includes standards for the classification as well as parks within the community that. fall into the classification. MINI-PARKS Mini-parks are usually 2,400 to 5,000 square feet in size and provide space for picnicking, walking, or gathering. Park components typically include benches, tables, playground area, and a focal element, such as a fountain. Mini-parks in the Columbia Heights park system include Edgemoor, Hilltop, and Wargo Court parks. NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS Neighborhood parks are usually 2 to 5 acres in size and provide active recreational areas that serve the surrounding residents within one-quarter to one-half mile of the park. Park components typically include playground equipment, open play areas, game courts, benches, picnic areas, trees and shrubbery, and occasionally a ball field and/or skating rink. Neighborhood parks in the Columbia Heights park system include Gauvitte, Keyes, Ostrander, and Prestemon parks. COMMUNITY PARKS Community parks are usually 15 to 25 acres in size and provide organized recreational activities for the entire community. Park facilities usually include athletic fields, game courts, and picnic areas, playground equipment, play areas, swimming pool, and pathways. Community parks are normally accessed by automobile and located near a major thoroughfare. Community parks in the Columbia Heights park system include Huset, Curt Ramsdell, and McKenna parks. REGIONAL PARKS Regional parks are larger parks that serve more than one community and are often located in areas with natural amenities such as woods, hills, or water. Typical activities include picnicking, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, skiing, and camping. Albert A. Kordiak Park is the only regional park within Columbia Heights. 117 HISTORIC PARKS Historic Parks have .signifioance related to a particular event within a community. These areas preserve, maintain and interpret features that make the site m~aningful. Although there are no historic parks in the community, many people recognize the historical significance of Wargo Court because of the on-site time capsule and name dedication. SPECIAL USE Special use parks are usually created for a specialized or specific purpose recreational activity. such as golf, nature centers, and zoos. The Silver Lake Swimming Beach is a special use park within the community. SCHOOL PARKS School parks are usually located adjacent to schools and are created to jointly serve the recreational needs of the school and the immediate neighborhood or community at large. Recreation areas classified as school parks are the outdoor recreational facilities provided at Columbia Heights High School and Central Middle School. Additional facilities are located at North Park Elementary, which is located in Fridley but within the Columbia Heights school district, and are used by the Columbia Heights Recreation Department to meet its current recreation demands. OTHER: CHURCHES AND COLLEGES There are also churches and a technical college within the community that have recreational facilities; however, most of these facilities are only available for use by members, students, and employees. Examples of these types of facilities include NEI, First Lutheran Church, and Immaculate Conception Church. The facilities at First Lutheran Church are available to the general public during specified times. NATIONAL FACILITY STANDARDS In order to compare the adequacy of park and recreation facilities in Columbia Heights to other communities, National Facility Standards have been referenced. These standards serve as a guide to determining park and recreation needs in Columbia Heights, since each community has different needs depending upota its character, geographical location, and demographics. Table 10-2 provides a comparison of park and recreation facilities in Columbia Heights as compared to the current national facility standards. 118 TABLE 10-2 NATIONAL STANDARDS IN RELATION TO EXISTING FACILITIES NUMBER OF NUMBER OF SPACE NUMBER OF NATIONAL FACILITIES SERVICE FACILITY REQUIRED UNITS/POP SUGGESTED COLUMBIA AREA FACILITIES HEIGHTS* ¼ to V: mile Baseball Field 3 ACRES 1/5,000 4 $ ¼ to % mile Softball Field 2 ACRES 1/5,000 4 8 % to ~ mile Basketball Courts .5 ACRE ' 1/3,000 6.7 I I 1 mile Skating Rink 1 ACRE I/2,000 10 9 ~ mile Hockey Rink .5 ACRE !/3,000 6.7 5 ¼ to V~ mile Volleyball Court .1 ACRE 1/5,000 4 4 'A to ~ mile Tennis Court .6 ACRE i/2,000 10 7 15 to 30 Football Field 2 ACRES 1/20,000 I 6 minutes I to 2 miles Soccer Field 2 ACRES 1/5,000 4 6 ¼ mile Playground .5 ACRE 1/1,500 13.4 15 I mile Picnic Shelter .25 ACRE I/5,000 4 3 *Includes school facilities In almost all categories, the City of Columbia Heights either meets or exceeds national standards. The exception to this is tennis courts and picnic facilities -two areas where the City does not meet the national guidelines. Even when taking the schools and college within the community into consideration, the number of tennis courts in the community is significantly lower' than the standard. There are no school tennis courts available for use when school is not in session and most of the park courts are in need of resurfacing and other repairs. NEEDS ASSESSMENT EXAMINATION In June 1996, the Columbia Heights Recreation Department conducted a parks and recreation needs assessment study. The purpose of this study was to determine residents' awareness, usage, and attitudes towards parks, recreation facilities, programs and activities in the community. The survey was randomly distributed to 800 Columbia Heights residents, with a total of 283 completed surveys returned. The sampling error for this study was less than five percent. 119 The results of this study indicated that the residents of Columbia Heights had a high level of overall satisfaction with parks, recreation facilities, programs and activities provided by the City. Over one-fourth of the residents were aware of all the park and recreation opportunities listed in the survey; however, one-third of the residents had never used any of the parks and recreation facilities. In addition, with the exception of the City Jamboree, four-fifths of the residents had not participated in any of the City's recreation programs or activities. The survey also indicated that most residents believe the community has enough park space to serve the recreation and leisure needs of the community's resident; however, many residents' opinions were mixed concerning the fuml-e acquisition of additional park and recreation facilities. The majority of survey respondents indicated that they would support a referendum to make park improvements and/or build an indoor multi-use center, provided that their taxes would not increase and that private funding would cover a large portion of the expense to the City. When asked about supporting a referendum to raise taxes in order to fund park improvements or build an indoor multi-use facility, the resident's responses varied. RECREATION DEMAND TRENDS The following trends in the demand for recreation facilities provide insight into the need for future recreational facilities in Columbia Heights. In general, participation in trail recreation is expected to increase and activities such as bicycling, jogging, pleasure walking, and pet walking will also continue to grow. The following trends are expected to have the greatest influence on urban parks and recreational facilities in the future: Activity and Service Trends · Demand for. walking, running, and biking (urban activities) vs. hiking opportunities · Need for more interpretation and environment education · More athletic and special events (tournaments) · More elderly and special needs requiring barrier-free activities Guided day hikes circular trails · Demand for picnicking and short term camping with related diverse recreation activities nearby (i.e. playgrounds, volleyball, and baseball) Facility Trends · Need for quality day use facilities (picnic area, athletic fields, and playgrounds) · Demand for top-notch urban fisheries 120 · ~Demand for miltiPle rises on all urban parklands · Group areas/community'centers for youth and community groups * Increased concession operations and services provided · More facilities for larger groups · Adequate;~:~V~ll '~m~ntained Picnic areas, including group areas sanitation, electricity-reasonably priced User and Use Pattern Trends with better services, · Greater minority and handicap use requiring higher development level and user information/education · Increasing use by a wider variety of ethnic and socio-economic groups · Minority, single-parent families needing a place to take part in activities, sports, etc. · More elderly as frequent day visitors at parks close to their home · Increasing use by the people not seeking traditional experiences (vandals, gangs) · More organized activities and day use · Less interest in environmental education since urban residents are so detached form the land and natural resources closer-to-home, low-cost, low time-impact, with nature · More people seeking recreation oriented opportunities Management Issues and Trends · Increasing recreation demands beyond budget and staff capabilities · Less and less people attuned to environmental knowledge and concern · Increasing conflicts with adjacent urban interface-users recreating adjacent to residential areas, locating facilities near residential areas · Increased numbers of people, more congestion, vandalism, and wear and tear of features and facilities · Meeting the needs of low-income users with current trends of fewer appropriations, greater reliance on user fees, and contracts/partnerships, etc. 121 CONCLUSIONS AND MAJOR FINDINGS The following conclusions and findings were included in the 1996 Comprehensive Park System Plan: DEMOGRAPHICS To best meet the changing needs of the population, the City of Columbia Heights park system must be prepared to conform to the needs of the incr6asing elderly population as well as the increasing number of preschool children and youngfafiiilies'in the area. It is also recommended that the Recreation Department do its part to address the rising growth of non-traditional families by providing alternative activities to meet the needs of single-parent households. LAND DEVELOPMENTS To meet the needs of a completely developed urban area, the City of Columbia Heights must be willing to acquire additional land that is deemed beneficial to the park system. Besides the north and south end of Lomianki Park, the loss of any additional park space would prove to be extremely critical to the vitality of the park system. Possible future land acquisitions include a vacated lot for sale at 3932 Quincy Street, as well as the Kremer and Davis building at 3900 Jefferson Street. Since both these properties adjoin Huset Park, the acquisition of the prOperties would be beneficial to the redevelopment of Huset Park. RECREATION AND FACILITY TRENDS Besides demographics, the primary trend affecting parks and recreation is increased transportation. People are becoming more destination-oriented and are willing to travel to those places and/or communities that offer them the services they are seeking. With increased transportation, improvements in transportation routes (especially pedestrian-based) and ease of access (including handicap persons) are becoming more critical. Other projected trends include more group activities, improved group areas and picnic facilities, and close-to-home, low-cost recreation opportunities. TRAILS AND PATHWAYS A rapidly increasing trend, trails and path~vays are becoming an essential component in linking parks to developments, people, and to the community. As recreation activities such as biking, running, walking, and inline skating increase, the need for an ~ffective trail and pathway system in Columbia Heights becomes more of a priority. 122 ATHLETIC FIELDS While baseball needS"are~-~urr~fitly being'met, the supplY of softball fields within~the City are unable to keep up with dem}thd. The development of at least one or two additional fields or the possibility of a multi-use baseball/softball field should be explored. TENNIS COURTS According to inventory and data discussed earlier} the City also has an unmet demand for tennis courts. Although tennis use is decreasing, the only courts in decent condition are the courts at Sullivan Lake and the High School. However, it must be noted that the High School does not allow use of its courts when school is .not in session, and this includes summer. To meet the needs of the community, it is recommended that one set of tennis courts be both repaired, and resurfaced or redeveloped completely. PICNIC FACILITIES At this time, the City does contain many picnic tables located throughout the parks. However, the need for appropriate group picnic shelters and clustered picnic areas is increasing. The development of picnic shelters containing electrical hook-ups, water, and other amenities should be considered. WADING POOLS These recreational water facilities are a very popular park amenity but also very expensive. Taking current conditions into consideration, redevelopment of the pools or the possibility of exploring an alternative recreational water facility is a future necessity. OTHER OUTDOOR FACILITIES While some facilities such as basketball courts and ice-rinks continue to keep pace with demand, other facilities such as playground equipment, park buildings, and the band shell are aging and showing signs of deterioration. Replacement of these deteriorating facilities is considered a high-priority and has already begun to occur. A lightweight, portable stage may also be considered as a possible replacement for the band shell. INDOOR FACILITIES Currently all indoor recreation facilities are unable to meet demands. Even though outdoor recreation is the primary focus of the community, the need for appropriate and viable indoor recreation space is continuing to increase. If constructed, an indoor multi-purpose facility could be envisioned as a community center, containing meeting rooms, gymnasium space, a teen center, and special use activity rooms. 123 TRAIL SYSTEM The City of Columbia Heights does not have a comprehensive trail system. There are short perimeter paths at Sullivan Lake, LaBelle and Kordiak Parks; however, these are the only recreation trails within the community. Considering the current and future recreational needs of the citizens of Columbia Heights, the development of a comprehensive trail system is a high priority. There are many oppo. rtunities within Columbia Heights to increase the accessibility and circulation of pedestrian, bicycle and other non-motorized modes of transportation..,Most of these opportunities occur along existing transportation routes and must be carefully designed and implemented into the existing transportation framework. The development of any trail element within a fully developed community such as Columbia Heights will have to accommodate safe and convenient use by pedestrians and other modes of transportation without compromising motorized transportation choices. Increasing pedestrian movement and accessibility within the community will enhance the linkages between various areas, including the areas targeted for redevelopment. These linkages will also enhance the overall image of the City while encouraging the use of alternative modes of transportation. PARK AND OPEN SPACE GOALS, POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES The following park and open space goals have been developed for Columbia Heights. Each goal includes numbered policies and bulleted implementation strategies that correspond to each of the policies. Goal: Promote parks and trails as essential elements of a broader strategy to provide fiscal strength, encourage private economic growth, improve community image and enhance the quality of life in Columbia Heights. 1. Maintain, improve, and redevelop the system of parks within the community. · The City will maintain and replace existing park facilities as needed. · The City will utilize location deficiencies to prioritize needed park system maintenance and improvements within the community. The City will continue the on-going development of the system by identif7 non-park lands adjoining existing parks for possible acquisition as well as isolated parcels of existing non-usable parkland for disposition. · The City will utilize the capital improvement program to fund park improvement and redevelopment throughout the community. 124 Maintain and improve the system of trails within the community. The"City will ;create a well-defined system of trails and .sidewalks linking all -municipal parks and major activity areas throughout the community to encourage non-vehicular transportation, afford access to all municipal parks, provide a connection to the regional park and trail system, and serve as an additional community-wide recreation facility. The City will prioritize proposed trail segments and existing trail system upgrades throughout the community. The City will utilize the capital improvement program to fund trail system development and improvement throughout the community. Promote a sense of ownership in the community's parks to enhance. The City will utilize volunteer labor for park upkeep and general maintenance as appropriate in order to enhance the sense of ownership and pride within the park system. · The City will explore the feasibility of creating an "adopt a park" program. The City will encourage plantings and other landscaping endeavors within parks by citizens and neighborhood groups when done in accordance with City-approved plans. The City will encourage public involvement in the decision-making process through public meetings and the development of master plans for individual parks. 4. Utilize master planning for park redevelopment projects. The City will prepare a master plan for the redevelopment of Huset Park as a central focus point of the community in conjunction with the overall Community Center project. · The City will develop flexible master plans for each park that address the current and future needs of the community and the neighborhoods served. Goal: Encourage the development and maintenance of a unified park system and cooperative recreational programs. 1. Coordinate park planning and development activities with adjacent communities, the school district, Anoka County and State agencies to provide the highest level of service while eliminating duplication of efforts. · The City will coordinate park and open space facility development and funding with appropriate organizations and agencies. 125 Goal: · The City will coordinate program development and implementation with the other recreation providers in the community, including the community education program. The City will consider the feasibility of appointing a Parks Director/Planner to oversee the maintenance, upkeep, development and redevelopment of the entire park system. Provide a safe, flexible and attractive park and open space system based on community characteristics, changing demographics, and overall needs. Maintain standards for all parks to provide safe and attractive facilities for all residents. The City will utilize park classification and development standards to identify needed park facility improvements throughout the community. The City will develop maintenance standards for all municipal park facilities based on the intensity of use and the purpose/classification of the park. The City will review the subdivision regulations, and amend them if needed, to ensure that adequate park and trail dedications are required during the platting of property for development or redevelopment. Rely on current community characteristics and trends when developing park facilities and recreation programs. The City will monitor changing population trends, obtain public input, and assess park use on an on-going basis to provide an up-to-date and flexible system of activities and programs. · The City will consider demographic changes as well as location deficiencies when establishing park system redevelopment priorities. Provide a park and open space system that serves the wide-ranging recreation and leisure needs of the community's residents. · The City will explore the feasibility of developing additional softball and/or baseball field(s) within the community. · The City will explore the feasibility of developing and/or redeveloping/repairing tennis courts in municipal parks throughout the community. · The City will explore the feasibility of developing picnic shelters and/or clustered picnic areas with electrical hook-ups, water and other amenities in community parks. 126 ~'~. 4. Enhance recreational opportunities for the community's youth. Goal: 1. · The City will .work with the school district to identify appropriate recreation programs and needed facilities for the community's youth population. · The City will explore the need for a joint youth activity center/library/community center facility within the community. · The City will explore the need for and feasibility of a wading pool or similar facility within the community. Preserve and protect natural features and resources in existing parks and when planning and redeveloping park and recreational facilities. · The City will develop standards for protection of natural features in the development of new park facilities within the community. · The City will coordinate park planning and storm water management efforts to preserve the quality of water resources within existing parks and open space areas. · The City will accommodate sensitivity and understanding of adjacent land uses in park and facility planning. · The City will take appropriate actions to bring Silver Lake to swimming and fishing quality as defined by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Fund park and recreation facilities in an effective and equitable manner. Provide municipal park and open space facilities in a cost-effective manner. · The City will consider long-term maintenance costs as well as initial investment costs when considering facility design and redevelopment. · The City will prepare and maintain a long-range capital improvements program for all park, trail and open space facilities. · The City will identify a long-term funding source for the development, redevelopment and maintenance of all park system facilities. Promote alternative funding sources for park and recreational facilities and programs within the community. The City will explore the possibility of soliciting contributions from private organizations and corporations in the community, including the development of a "gift catalogue" which would identify needs within the system and associate costs. 127 · The City will explore-the feasibility of a referendum bond issue for park redevelopment, including upgrades and improvements to existing facilities, the possible acquisition of additional land, and the possible development of an indoor recreation facility. · The City will assess reasonable charges for specialized recreation facilities and programs when those participating benefit directly. · The City will assess rental fees for recreation and leisure facilities as determined by the City Council. · The City will assess a general inon-resident fee to all non-residents participating in Columbia Heights recreation programs excluding mutually sponsored events and other special occasions. · The City will utilize volunteer labor as appropriate for park upkeep and general maintenance. · The City will explore sources and apply for county, state, and federal grants consistent with City policies to maintain and improve the park and trail system, such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), the Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCMR), the Tree Trust, and the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery program (UPARR). · The City will develop a strategy for creating park and recreation activities and programs that generate revenue to be used to support park program improvements. FUNDING SOURCES The following is a discussion of rrm'ding sources for park system development and redevelopment. " The Land and Water Conservation Fund !(L WCF) is a federal program that supplies matching grants (50/50) to states and localities for'recreation planning, public land acquisition and the development of outdoor recreation facilities. It is administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Department of Trade and Economic Development (DTED). Applications for grants are due in the fall, with recipients being notified in late winter. The criteria used to rank the applications change periodically. The Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCMR) is an organization that administers three state funds intended to assist with innovative projects that enhance natural resources. Projects are funded on a two-year basis and need to have a specified b~ginning and ending date. LCMR accepts applications biennially with competition for these grants remaining quite high. 128 The Tree Trust is a private, non-profit organization that administers job programs funded by grants from the federal government. The summer youth employment is a resource available to local governments and o~¢r non-profit agencies. The Tree Trust provides labor and supervision, while the local government provides tools and materials. Eligible projects include tree planting, landscape maintenance, construction of retaining walls, construction of pedestrian bridges, and similar projects; however, the project must involve a minimal use of power tools. The projects for a given year are typically determined in March; therefore, work requests need to be made well in advanced. The Urban Park and Recreation Recovery (UPARR) is a federal funding source that supplies matching grants to local governments for the rehabilitation of recreation areas and facilities and the demonstration of innovative approaches to improve park system management and recreation oppommities. The grants range in size from 50 percent to 70 percent of project costs and are administered through the National Park Service. Eligibility is based on need, economic and physical distress, and the relative quality and condition of urban recreation facilities and systems. 129