HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-26-2023 Park & Recreation Commission Packet
APRIL 26, 2023 PARK & RECREATION
COMMISSION MEETING
John P. Murzyn Hall—Senior Center, 530 Mill St NE
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
5:30 PM
AGENDA
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION FOR THE PUBLIC
Members of the public who wish to attend may do so in-person, by calling 1-312-626-6799 and entering
meeting ID 851 7646 1822by Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85176461822. For questions please call the
Recreation Department at 763-706-3730.
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
1. Introduce new commission members Teresa Eisenbise,Taher Harzallah, and Andrea Ostergaard
2. Oath of office for new commission members Teresa Eisenbise, Taher Herzallah, and Andrea
Ostergaard
CONSENT AGENDA
(These items are considered to be routine by the Park & Recreation Commission and will be enacted as part of
the Consent Agenda by one motion.)
3. Approve Payment of Bills - John P Murzyn Hall March 2023
4. Approve Payment of Bills - Parks March 2023
5. Approve regular meeting minutes from the Park & Recreation Commission March 22, 2023
LETTERS AND REQUESTS
6. Letter of Request attached to waive the rental fee of John P Murzyn Hall for Cheers For Beers on
May 12, 2023 by HeightsNEXT.
OLD BUSINESS
7. Recognition of a park bench donation by Nicole Peterson. The bench is located at Prestemon Park.
Photos attached.
NEW BUSINESS
8. Community Engagement Specialist, Will Rottler will discuss City Event Involvement opportunities.
9. Cullen will discuss the placement of disc golf baskets at Prestemon Park
REPORTS
Recreation Director
Public Works Director/City Engineer
Commission Members
ADJOURNMENT
Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is made at
least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements.
1
March JPM Expenses REPORT FOR CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
TRANSACTIONS FROM 03/01/2023 TO 03/31/2023
Date Description Reference # Debits Credits Balance
Fund 101 GENERAL
03/01/2023 101.5129.42010 MINOR EQUIPMENT BEG. BALANCE 0.00
03/28/2023 STAFFORD‐SMITH, INC. 5061403 5,041.00 5,041.00
TRUE T‐49‐HC COMERCIAL REFIGERATOR
03/31/2023 101.5129.42010 END BALANCE 5,041.00 0.00 5,041.00
03/01/2023 101.5129.42171 GENERAL SUPPLIES BEG. BALANCE 530.68
03/09/2023 MENARDS CASHWAY LUMBER‐FRIDLEY 84988 103.63 634.31
PAINT, CONTACT CEMENT, CLEANERS, TAPE
03/14/2023 AMAZON.COM 3356236 25.99 660.30
GNOME MOLD AND WASHER LID LOCK
03/16/2023 MENARDS CASHWAY LUMBER‐FRIDLEY 83652 16.96 677.26
PAINT ROLLER COVERS, SANDING SPONGES, SP
03/31/2023 101.5129.42171 END BALANCE 146.58 0.00 677.26
03/01/2023 101.5129.43050 EXPERT & PROFESSION BEG. BALANCE 0.00
03/30/2023 ALLIED UNIVERSAL SECURITY SERVICES 14054541 200.00 200.00
SECURITY JPM 031823‐031923
03/31/2023 101.5129.43050 END BALANCE 200.00 0.00 200.00
03/01/2023 101.5129.43210 TELEPHONE BEG. BALANCE 218.51
03/26/2023 POPP.COM INC 992777179 0.73 219.24
032623 ‐10013121
03/31/2023 POPP.COM INC 992778353 49.98 269.22
033123 ‐10010429
03/31/2023 101.5129.43210 END BALANCE 50.71 0.00 269.22
03/01/2023 101.5129.43250 OTHER TELECOMMUN BEG. BALANCE 26.06
03/15/2023 COMCAST 168724569 9.72 35.78
031523 934571297
03/31/2023 101.5129.43250 END BALANCE 9.72 0.00 35.78
03/01/2023 101.5129.43600 PROP & LIAB INSURAN BEG. BALANCE 1,216.66
03/31/2023 23 PROPERTY & LIAB INSURANCE ALLOC13737 608.33 1,824.99
03/31/2023 101.5129.43600 END BALANCE 608.33 0.00 1,824.99
03/01/2023 101.5129.43800 UTILITY SERVICES BEG. BALANCE 0.00
03/13/2023 Internal Charge 1,120.75 1,120.75
03/31/2023 101.5129.43800 END BALANCE 1,120.75 0.00 1,120.75
03/01/2023 101.5129.43810 ELECTRIC BEG. BALANCE 2,128.25
03/16/2023 CORNILLIE 2 COMMUNITY SOLAR 16324 506.64 2,634.89
2
Item 3.
031623 SOLAR GARDEN
03/20/2023 XCEL ENERGY (N S P) 1025460120 1,777.30 4,412.19
032023 51‐4350334‐8
03/20/2023 XCEL ENERGY (N S P) 1025460120 543.95 3,868.24
032023 51‐4350334‐8
03/31/2023 101.5129.43810 END BALANCE 2,283.94 543.95 3,868.24
03/01/2023 101.5129.43830 GAS BEG. BALANCE 2,109.09
03/16/2023 CENTERPOINT ENERGY 8000014661‐5 1,897.68 4,006.77
031623 8000014661‐5
03/31/2023 101.5129.43830 END BALANCE 1,897.68 0.00 4,006.77
03/01/2023 101.5129.44000 REPAIR & MAINT. SERVBEG. BALANCE 0.00
03/30/2023 AID ELECTRIC SERVICE INC 73674 807.28 807.28
ELEVATOR BRAKER, RPLC BALLASTS, FLAG POL
03/31/2023 101.5129.44000 END BALANCE 807.28 0.00 807.28
03/01/2023 101.5129.44010 BUILDING MAINT:INTE BEG. BALANCE 1,733.34
03/31/2023 23 BUILDING MAINT ALLOCATION 13732 866.67 2,600.01
03/31/2023 101.5129.44010 END BALANCE 866.67 0.00 2,600.01
03/01/2023 101.5129.44020 BLDG MAINT CONTRACBEG. BALANCE 2,912.10
03/02/2023 CINTAS INC 4147826894 33.59 2,945.69
MOPS JPM 022823
03/02/2023 SHAMROCK GROUP‐ACE ICE 2830896 264.00 3,209.69
POP GUN REPAIR
03/09/2023 CINTAS INC 4148520891 33.59 3,243.28
MOPS JPM 030723
03/09/2023 SCHINDLER ELEVATOR CORP INC 8106175165 77.27 3,320.55
PREVENT MAINT 0223
03/16/2023 CINTAS INC 4149217848 33.59 3,354.14
MOPS JPM 031423
03/21/2023 ASSET MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS INC 12403394 116.97 3,471.11
MONITORING 0423‐0623 MURZYN HALL
03/22/2023 CINTAS INC 4149948530 105.94 3,577.05
MATS, MOPS JPM 032123
03/30/2023 CINTAS INC 4150628433 33.59 3,610.64
MOPS JPM 032823
03/31/2023 101.5129.44020 END BALANCE 698.54 0.00 3,610.64
03/01/2023 101.5129.44030 SOFTWARE & SOFTWA BEG. BALANCE 1,200.00
03/31/2023 101.5129.44030 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 1,200.00
03/01/2023 101.5129.44040 INFORMATION SYS:INT BEG. BALANCE 1,100.31
03/31/2023 23 IT ALLOCATION 13739 491.67 1,591.98
03/31/2023 101.5129.44040 END BALANCE 491.67 0.00 1,591.98
3
Item 3.
03/01/2023 101.5129.44100 RENTS & LEASES BEG. BALANCE (10,950.00)
03/31/2023 23 MURZYN SPACE ALLOCATION 13740 5,475.00 (16,425.00)
03/31/2023 101.5129.44100 END BALANCE 0.00 5,475.00 (16,425.00)
03/01/2023 101.5129.44310 CREDIT CARD FEES BEG. BALANCE 124.34
03/31/2023 CC FEE REC & CD 03/23 13693 119.84 244.18
03/31/2023 101.5129.44310 END BALANCE 119.84 0.00 244.18
03/01/2023 101.5129.44390 TAXES & LICENSES BEG. BALANCE 250.00
03/09/2023 MN DEPT OF LABOR & INDUSTRY ALR0146022X 100.00 350.00
ELEVATOR PERMIT JPM
03/31/2023 101.5129.44390 END BALANCE 100.00 0.00 350.00
4
Item 3.
March Parks Expense REPORT FOR CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
TRANSACTIONS FROM 03/01/2023 TO 03/31/2023
Date Description Reference # Debits Credits Balance
Fund 101 GENERAL
03/01/2023 101.5200.42000 OFFICE SUPPLIES BEG. BALANCE 3.92
03/08/2023 COPY PAPER, TONER 414A IN4109877 8.33 12.25
03/31/2023 PACKING TAPE, HIGHLIGHTERS, DUST‐OFF IN4140079 5.35 17.60
03/31/2023 101.5200.42000 END BALANCE 13.68 0.00 17.60
03/01/2023 101.5200.42010 MINOR EQUIPMENT BEG. BALANCE 2,448.10
03/01/2023 GPS TRACKERS 200‐1041624 189.21 2,637.31
03/14/2023 DESK BIKE 3251437 83.33 2,720.64
03/14/2023 WORKSTATION ATTACHMENTS 7447455 13.33 2,733.97
03/14/2023 METABO BURNISHING KIT 7399450 211.25 2,945.22
03/14/2023 GLAVANIZED STEEL PALLETS 8,000 LB CAPAC 82991866 499.23 3,444.45
03/20/2023 PALLET JACK 86027 73.99 3,518.44
03/20/2023 HITCH 6028600‐00 803.33 4,321.77
03/31/2023 101.5200.42010 END BALANCE 1,873.67 0.00 4,321.77
03/01/2023 101.5200.42030 PRINTING & PRINTED FORM BEG. BALANCE 35.00
03/31/2023 101.5200.42030 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 35.00
03/01/2023 101.5200.42161 CHEMICALS BEG. BALANCE 1,042.00
03/03/2023 GRAFFITI REMOVER, WASP‐AWAY, CONCRET 0042784 1,984.00 3,026.00
03/31/2023 101.5200.42161 END BALANCE 1,984.00 0.00 3,026.00
03/01/2023 101.5200.42171 GENERAL SUPPLIES BEG. BALANCE 586.95
03/03/2023 PAINT BRUSHES, CONTAINER 85037 47.71 634.66
03/03/2023 PAINT 7455‐6 51.99 686.65
03/06/2023 PAINT 7500‐9 28.68 715.33
03/07/2023 16GA GALV WIRE 85302 4.19 719.52
03/07/2023 BRUSHES, LINERS, CABLE TIES 85271 34.51 754.03
03/09/2023 STRAP, WASHERS, BOLTS 85396 4.70 758.73
03/10/2023 CAN LINERS 826138 898.50 1,657.23
03/14/2023 VAVLE, FITTING, NIPPLE INV384192 35.79 1,693.02
03/14/2023 LENS CLEANING WIPES 9644255 12.56 1,705.58
03/14/2023 BLADES, HOSE REPAIR 9011205 22.25 1,727.83
03/14/2023 HOSE FITTINGS 85676 11.26 1,739.09
03/23/2023 ERASE CALENDAR, DRY ERASE MARKERS 161511664 56.07 1,795.16
03/31/2023 101.5200.42171 END BALANCE 1,208.21 0.00 1,795.16
03/01/2023 101.5200.42172 UNIFORMS BEG. BALANCE 348.00
03/10/2023 SUMMARY PR 03/10/2023 54.99 402.99
03/24/2023 SUMMARY PR 03/24/2023 98.19 501.18
5
Item 4.
03/31/2023 101.5200.42172 END BALANCE 153.18 0.00 501.18
03/01/2023 101.5200.42173 PROTECTIVE CLOTHING BEG. BALANCE 364.99
03/16/2023 SAFETY GLASSES, PICK, EARPLUGS 015802 47.36 412.35
03/31/2023 101.5200.42173 END BALANCE 47.36 0.00 412.35
03/01/2023 101.5200.42175 FOOD SUPPLIES BEG. BALANCE 0.00
03/08/2023 COFFEE 70396796 7.98 7.98
03/14/2023 DONUTS‐ANNUAL PW MEETING 00000029 5.75 13.73
03/31/2023 101.5200.42175 END BALANCE 13.73 0.00 13.73
03/01/2023 101.5200.42280 VEHICLE REPAIR AND PARTS BEG. BALANCE 4,713.07
03/31/2023 PARKS PARTS 13726 3,955.50 8,668.57
03/31/2023 101.5200.42280 END BALANCE 3,955.50 0.00 8,668.57
03/01/2023 101.5200.42282 GAS, OIL, LUBRICANTS BEG. BALANCE 2,251.68
03/31/2023 PARK FUEL 13727 888.63 3,140.31
03/31/2023 101.5200.42282 END BALANCE 888.63 0.00 3,140.31
03/01/2023 101.5200.43050 EXPERT & PROFESSIONAL SEBEG. BALANCE 46.93
03/31/2023 23 FLEX PLAN ADMIN EXP 13730 8.08 55.01
03/31/2023 ANNUAL ENROLLMENTS, DRUG TESTS 0323 2506002303 105.90 160.91
03/31/2023 101.5200.43050 END BALANCE 113.98 0.00 160.91
03/01/2023 101.5200.43105 TRAINING & EDUCATION ACBEG. BALANCE 526.34
03/08/2023 2023 LCW TIM LUND 376938 20.00 546.34
03/14/2023 2023 SHADE TREE COURSE DC,TL,JN,AW 43938438963 450.00 996.34
03/14/2023 2023 SHADE TREE COURSE DC,TL,JN,AW 43938438963 450.00 1,446.34
03/31/2023 101.5200.43105 END BALANCE 920.00 0.00 1,446.34
03/01/2023 101.5200.43210 TELEPHONE BEG. BALANCE 25.67
03/26/2023 032623 ‐10013121 992777179 2.85 28.52
03/31/2023 101.5200.43210 END BALANCE 2.85 0.00 28.52
03/01/2023 101.5200.43211 CELL PHONES BEG. BALANCE 470.68
03/01/2023 030123 342019817‐00001 9928972314 235.34 706.02
03/31/2023 101.5200.43211 END BALANCE 235.34 0.00 706.02
03/01/2023 101.5200.43250 OTHER TELECOMMUNICATI BEG. BALANCE 33.56
03/15/2023 031523 934571297 168724569 9.72 43.28
03/15/2023 BROADBAND CONN 0323 B230315G 3.75 47.03
03/31/2023 DATA PLAN 0223 200‐1042022 60.00 107.03
03/31/2023 101.5200.43250 END BALANCE 73.47 0.00 107.03
03/01/2023 101.5200.43310 LOCAL TRAVEL EXPENSE BEG. BALANCE 243.21
03/31/2023 101.5200.43310 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 243.21
6
Item 4.
03/01/2023 101.5200.43600 PROP & LIAB INSURANCE BEG. BALANCE 4,716.66
03/31/2023 23 PROPERTY & LIAB INSURANCE ALLOCATIO13737 2,358.33 7,074.99
03/31/2023 101.5200.43600 END BALANCE 2,358.33 0.00 7,074.99
03/01/2023 101.5200.43800 UTILITY SERVICES BEG. BALANCE 1,579.73
03/13/2023 Internal Charge 724.15 2,303.88
03/31/2023 101.5200.43800 END BALANCE 724.15 0.00 2,303.88
03/01/2023 101.5200.43810 ELECTRIC BEG. BALANCE 1,742.85
03/13/2023 031323 51‐0010057576‐7 1023835448 131.96 1,874.81
03/13/2023 031323 51‐7654903‐4 1023798772 18.11 1,892.92
03/13/2023 031323 51‐7654903‐4 1023798772 197.27 2,090.19
03/13/2023 031323 51‐8042065‐3 1023813566 14.94 2,105.13
03/13/2023 031323 51‐5950185‐0 1023781677 114.48 2,219.61
03/13/2023 031323 51‐5950185‐0 1023781677 33.45 2,253.06
03/13/2023 031323 51‐0012266105‐3 1023838369 87.72 2,340.78
03/13/2023 031323 51‐9597586‐9 1023816609 16.82 2,357.60
03/13/2023 031323 51‐0011039127‐7 1023840964 54.40 2,412.00
03/31/2023 101.5200.43810 END BALANCE 669.15 0.00 2,412.00
03/01/2023 101.5200.43830 GAS BEG. BALANCE 1,944.35
03/08/2023 030823 10802324‐3 10802324‐3 80.51 2,024.86
03/08/2023 030823 5452216‐4 5452216‐4 225.78 2,250.64
03/08/2023 030823 5467671‐3 5467671‐3 13.20 2,263.84
03/16/2023 031623 8000014661‐5 8000014661‐5 359.49 2,623.33
03/16/2023 031623 8000014661‐5 8000014661‐5 298.63 2,921.96
03/16/2023 031623 8000014661‐5 8000014661‐5 142.82 3,064.78
03/16/2023 031623 8000014661‐5 8000014661‐5 262.12 3,326.90
03/16/2023 031623 8000014661‐5 8000014661‐5 265.75 3,592.65
03/31/2023 101.5200.43830 END BALANCE 1,648.30 0.00 3,592.65
03/01/2023 101.5200.44000 REPAIR & MAINT. SERVICES BEG. BALANCE 34.12
03/30/2023 LABELLE PARK‐TROUBLE SHOOT LIGHTS 73680 168.00 202.12
03/31/2023 Mar‐23 Copier Charge 13705 5.89 208.01
03/31/2023 101.5200.44000 END BALANCE 173.89 0.00 208.01
03/01/2023 101.5200.44020 BLDG MAINT CONTRACTUA BEG. BALANCE 658.59
03/31/2023 101.5200.44020 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 658.59
03/01/2023 101.5200.44030 SOFTWARE & SOFTWARE SUBEG. BALANCE 1,308.58
03/31/2023 101.5200.44030 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 1,308.58
03/01/2023 101.5200.44050 GARAGE, LABOR BURD. BEG. BALANCE 2,980.55
03/31/2023 PARKS LABOR 13726 2,144.25 5,124.80
7
Item 4.
03/31/2023 101.5200.44050 END BALANCE 2,144.25 0.00 5,124.80
03/01/2023 101.5200.44100 RENTS & LEASES BEG. BALANCE 15,131.34
03/09/2023 SATELLITE RENT‐LABELLE 0001490056 62.00 15,193.34
03/09/2023 SATELLITE RENT‐KEYES 0001490055 62.00 15,255.34
03/09/2023 SATELLITE RENT‐MCKENNA 0001490054 68.00 15,323.34
03/09/2023 SATELLITE RENT‐SULLIVAN 0001490058 140.00 15,463.34
03/18/2023 SATELLITE RENT‐LABELLE 0001502775 62.00 15,525.34
03/31/2023 23 GARAGE SPACE ALLOCATION 13738 6,866.67 22,392.01
03/31/2023 101.5200.44100 END BALANCE 7,260.67 0.00 22,392.01
03/01/2023 101.5200.44330 SUBSCRIPTION, MEMBERSH BEG. BALANCE 125.34
03/31/2023 101.5200.44330 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 125.34
03/01/2023 101.5200.44390 TAXES & LICENSES BEG. BALANCE 600.00
03/31/2023 101.5200.44390 END BALANCE 0.00 0.00 600.00
8
Item 4.
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting
Public Safety Building
March 22, 2023
Call to Order/Roll Call
Tom Greenhalgh called the meeting to order at 5:35 pm
Members present: Brian Clerkin, Sean Clerkin, Tom Greenhalgh, Andy Macko, Nicole Peterson
Staff present: Kevin Hansen, Public Works Director/City Engineer; Keith Windschitl, Recreation Director; Connie
Buesgens, Council Representative; Kelli Bourgeois, City Manager
Consent Agenda
Motion by S Clerkin, second by Macko, to approve the consent agenda. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion Carried.
Letters and Requests
A letter of request for a further reduced or waived rental fee of Murzyn Hall for a fundraiser for the Nordeast
Brewers Alliance homebrew club.
Resident Jason Berg, Communications Director for the Nordeast Brewers Alliance homebrew club. The group,
along with other regional homebrew clubs put together an event called Brew For Good. This is a homebrew only
festival. Donations are accepted at the door with proceeds going to support East Side Neighborhood Services.
The group is asking to use Murzyn Hall with the rental fee waived or further discounted. S Clerkin asked if any of
the members live in Columbia Heights. Berg replied that he is a resident. Windschitl indicated a security officer is
required during most rentals of Murzyn Hall. The fee is thirty-five dollars per hour with a minimum of four hours
covered. Windschitl discussed the requirements using the security officer services during events at Murzyn Hall.
Motion by S Clerkin, second by Macko, to approve the nonprofit nonresident rental fee of a $70 facility fee and
$60 per hour for the use of John P Murzyn Hall for Brew For Good. Proper liquor liability insurance must be
provided listing the City of Columbia Heights as additional insured. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion Carried.
A letter of request for a reduced rental fee of Murzyn Hall on Friday June 2, 2023 to host a Columbia Heights
High School Latin Prom.
Windschitl indicated this group had this event last year. The person in charge of the event again does live in
Fridley but attends CHHS, and their family would be the renter. Last year the Commission approved the
nonprofit nonresident rental rate. For this year that same approval would be the a $70 facility fee and $60 per
hour for the use of John P Murzyn Hall plus tax. This year the group is requesting to have the event end at 12am
with everyone out of the facility by 1am, but staff feels with it being a High School prom that is not suggested.
Windschitl reported last year the group was approved to end the dance at 11pm with everyone including
vendors out of the facility by 12am. S Clerkin asked if there were any issues with the group. Windschitl replied
the event went very well.
Motion by S Clerkin, second by B Clerkin, to approve the nonprofit nonresident rental fee of a $70 facility fee
9
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights March 22, 2023
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting Page 2
plus tax and $60 per hour plus tax for the use of John P Murzyn Hall, plus the requirement of a security officer
for the CHHS Latin Prom on June 2, 2023. The event should end at 11pm and everyone is out of the facility by
12am. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion Carried.
Old Business
Greenhalgh asked how the CoHi Con event went. S Clerkin replied it went very well and that the group had to
turn vendors away because the spots were sold out. It was a very successful event. Macko replied as a person
who attended the event it was awesome. There was a variety of activities from little kids up to grandparents.
Everyone was happy. It was nice to have plenty of parking. It was a fantastic time.
New Business
Hansen revisited some of what the Park & Recreation Commission has done to date in the past and discussed
where things are at for the future. In 2018 the Commission reviewed each park for possible redevelopment.
Based on those comments they developed a summary Capital Improvement Plan. In other words, what it would
take to redevelop each individual park. Almost half of the parks have been redeveloped. Hansen indicated the
issue right now is that there is no funding left in the park redevelopment plan. This funding is mostly supported
through small annual budget amounts given to that fund each year through the annual budget and through
major redevelopment. There isn’t sufficient funds in there to do any redevelopment. Due to the many changes
staff are seeing in the general supply chain but also with general pricing, staff would like to see updates from the
previously prepared park improvement plans in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The goal is to complete the park system.
The WSB consulting firm, who worked on most of our park updates, was hired to review the plans.
Edgemoor Park. The image from 2020 was shown. Currently there is a small playground. The park is a third of an
acre. Previously the plan was to update the play equipment but not really add any other amenities. There isn’t
room to add anything. Hansen reminded the Commission to keep in mind during the redevelopment process is
to keep a balance of greenspace. The original estimate from 2019 had a cost of $85,000. Based on WSB’s
estimates the cost of just a playset is $145,000 at 2024 costs. The installation is being done by Public Works
staff. Hansen pointed out that any new equipment will be ADA accessible. Greenhalgh asked what age group the
play equipment is geared towards. Hansen replied most of the parks will be ages 5 to 12.
Hilltop Park. Hansen indicated this park is similar in size and what is currently onsite. S Clerkin indicated he
forgets about that park. Hansen replied that a lot of people do. The land area is a little bit larger than Edgemoor
Park. This park borders residential property on almost all sides of the park. There are a few exterior amenities
such as a grill, and then a play structure on this one-acre park. The cost is identical to Edgemoor Park.
Gauvitte Park. Hansen indicated this park has not had any work done on it. There is a long-term plan that has
nothing to do with the park. This is a hidden and underutilized space. There is a small parking lot and the only
access to the park. There is an easement along the southeast edge of the park but that is over a parking lot to
allow city vehicles to get into the park. The CIP from 2018-2019 cuts Gauvitte Park almost in half to become a
stormwater pond. From a geographic perspective this is the only area that the City has available to do
stormwater improvements. These are requirements that need to be done in the next five to seven years. This is
because 44th Avenue is a main trunk line for stormwater and takes in about 60% in terms of the drainage area of
the city and from there it flows into the Mississippi River. Rivers are segmented by reach and have pollution
requirements that will affect us. In order to achieve what we need to do to reduce pollution for two things,
phosphorus and fecal contaminates, mostly from wildlife. By using the north third of the park we will be able to
create a surge reserve and overflow area. This offers two solutions by treating the water and the other to
alleviate flooding issues. One other component is that it is difficult to offer this type of park facility and not have
10
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights March 22, 2023
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting Page 3
adequate parking. The plan includes about thirty spots for parking. There could be a potential 72x120 yard
soccer area if there was available parking. The costs are broken up between what the actual costs of the park is
and what the stormwater improvements will be. Geographically the stormwater pond must go on the north side
of the park, and that removes the basketball court, the playground area, and the shelter. Staff feels those costs
should be supported through any stormwater funding. The basketball court and playground set would be moved
to the middle of the park and introduce a soccer field. Macko replied the hockey rink and overgrown baseball
field would be removed. Hansen replied yes and from what he knows they do not get used. The costs are broken
into two parts. Park improvements look at adding a soccer field, things to the south, and a trial around the park
so people can get to the amenities. With the storm pond the estimates would include what the storm pond is
taking out. This would replace the playground set, basketball court, and adding a 24x24 shelter. The investment
cost is close to two million dollars but the largest portion of that is for stormwater management. Greenhalgh
asked if this cost estimate includes buying one of the houses around the park. Hansen replied yes. Peterson
asked if there would be irrigation. Hansen replied no. The only park where irrigation would be installed is at
Huset Park. The placement of irrigation depends on what programming is happening at that location and
availability. The other item to consider is the maintenance of an irrigation system and costs associated with that.
Keyes Park. This park was part of a master plan that has had items completed and this current review identified
elements that have not been completed. The two elements that need to be completed are the concrete walking
path around the park, connecting to Reservoir Boulevard. The other item is to add onto the current building a
shelter with picnic tables. A new building is estimated to be around $550,000 and a remodeled building around
$450,000. The sidewalk is approximately $200,000.
Ramsdell Park. This park has also had master planning completed. One of the primary improvements here is a
regulation softball field for High School girls softball. There is an added trail, a newer play structure and shelter.
The original master plan continued the walking trail to the north end of the park and replaced the wading pool
with a smaller splash pad. S Clerkin asked what the cost comparison is between a splash pad and modifying an
existing pool with a ramp. Hansen replied with our current wading pools it would destroy the structure of the
pool to add a ramp and filtration. The new code requirements are the number of turnovers and where you have
to draw water from. We have to draw water from the bottom of the pool. Any time you make major
improvements to a structure you are required to bring that up to current codes. Hansen continued that the
splash pad at Huset Park is 3300 square feet and the proposed one is about 2500 square feet. For comparison
the Huset Park splash pad when built was about $525,000 and even though this one is smaller it will be more
expensive at approximately $550,000. This park has also been discussed previously as having a skate park. This
would be a built in, poured concrete park estimated at $575,000. S Clerkin asked if this would be grant funded.
Hansen replied, a skate park is not in the current Parks CIP. Right now, there is a request through the state
legislation with money going towards skate parks and Hansen believes that Columbia Heights is one of the cities
listed in that request. With past Park & Recreation Commissions there were two things discussed on how the
projects would happen in regard to funding. The skate park is over half a million dollars and where should that
fall in the priority list. The other item is the dog park. The decision was made to still include these amenities but
look for other funding sources or the priority would be lower on the overall list. Greenhalgh asked where the
skate park would be located. Hansen replied the corner of 49th and Johnson Street. Peterson asked if that land is
owned by the school district. Hansen replied that discussions with the past administration of the school district
regarding the use of that land space they were open to having something like a skate park there.
Lomianki Park. This park has the oldest playset that staff would like to replace and keep as a park amenity. Some
of the added features would be a small parking lot, replacing the building with a 24x24 shelter, adding a shed for
storage, and adding a walking path. The construction estimate is $475,000.
11
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights March 22, 2023
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting Page 4
McKenna Park. This neighborhood park is just under eight and a half acres. There isn’t any parking here other
than street parking. The two existing ballfields cannot be used at the same time because the outfields overlap.
There is a hockey rink that serves multipurpose. S Clerkin said it is very busy with volleyball. Hansen replied yes,
but also for pickleball. The playset is newer. During previous discussions the decision was to only operate two
splash pads in the city and then remove the wading pool at this location. The proposed general layout would
remove the existing building and install a parking lot. A 300-foot ballfield would maintain and have a soccer field.
There would be a walking trail connecting the east and west side of the park. The existing hockey rink would be
repaved and leveled for multipurpose use; ice hockey in the winter and then volleyball and pickleball in the
summer. Greenhalgh asked if both ballfields are in the update. Hansen replied no, there would be one ballfield
with a soccer field overlap. Hansen indicated McKenna Park ends up being a fairly expensive park for a number
of reasons. One of the large areas being the addition of a parking lot and removal of the building. Redoing the
softball field and grading the area to have a soccer field overlay. The addition of a shelter would be located
closer to the playground and soccer field. The estimated construction cost is $1,350,000. S Clerkin replied it was
unfortunate the old McKenna Park building with sliding glass doors was changed. Peterson asked about the
participation numbers of softball and baseball. Windschitl replied the youth girls softball program has really
good numbers right now, there is a good group of parents helping to run this program, but he added down the
road you don’t know what might happen. The number of baseball participants has declined. Adult softball has
decent participation.
LaBelle Park. This is another park that went through the master planning process. Hansen reported the lights
along the west side trail should be replaced to LED lights. New LED lights would be added to the remaining trail
along the east side of the park. The total replacement is about $100,000. The cost for a new fixture is $2,500
each and there are eight. The cost for a single pedestrian light pole is about $8,500 each; there are eight of
those as well. The city operates three aerators on the pond and has been unable to operate them for the past
two years. The reason is because the water level is lower, and the pond is getting filled in. The aerators need a
certain distance between the pond surface to where they draw up the water and no other bottom material. Due
to this staff are looking at a pond dredge. This was previously done around the year 2000. This is an extensive
DNR process. Peterson asked how deep the pond is. Hansen replied in most places it is two to four feet and
around six feet at its deepest.
Ostrander Park. This park was built on remanent land and has recently been causing issues. This is the worst
park for settlement issues. Settlement continues to happen in the middle of the greenspace where the
recreational skating rink goes. The building isn’t usable due to the bottom of the it has settled out. All of the
piping for sanitary sewer, water, and gas has separated because everything dropped. The playground set is well
past its useful life. The updated plan would redo the hockey rink. It is currently grass and would be paved for
multipurpose. The playset would need to be replaced and the installation of a small picnic shelter near that area.
There would be a walking path through the park and keep greenspace in the center area. Estimated construction
costs are $550,000.
Prestemon Park. This was one of the first parks worked on. When the ballfield was built lighting was added.
Playground equipment was added and needs replacement due to age and lack of part replacement availability. A
picnic shelter would be added close to the active features. Both parking lots need repavement. The current small
building would be removed. This park was also discussed previously for a potential dog park in the southeast
corner. Other additions would be more trails and redoing the basketball court. Construction estimates $825,000.
12
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights March 22, 2023
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting Page 5
Sullivan Lake Park. This was included in the first master planning effort along with Silver Lake Park. Sullivan Park
is viewed as an active park system with a highly used trail. The shelter is rented out all summer long. The tennis
court is beyond its useful life. Past discussion was to rebuild and maintain the tennis court. A long time ago
when Sullivan Lake was dredged, they did not export the mucky material and instead it was placed in the area
where the tennis courts are. This means the land will need to be cleaned up, sand brought in, and the tennis
courts reconstructed. Due to the material under the courts, there are a lot of frost heaves. The perimeter
fencing and nets move all the time. With the size of this park and the small size of the playground, previous
discussions were to include an accessible/inclusive play area on the north side of the shelter. Estimated
construction costs are $600,000 mainly for the two amenities of the tennis courts and inclusive play area.
Wargo Court. The master plan is done. The park was reformatted. The fountain is broken and needs to be
removed. The retaining walls are deteriorating. The landscape is past its useful life. Greenhalgh asked if we had
heard from the Wargo family. Hansen replied yes, he met with them. They had some comments on the master
plan but nothing significant. This plan was estimated at $400,000.
Huset Park is divided between the East and West Sides.
Huset Park West involves getting the ballfields down from four to three fields to allow for a future building
addition onto Murzyn Hall or a possible civic plaza perspective. There would be space allocated for future
development. The master plan calls for a connection between Mill Street and Huset Parkway. While trying to
keep the same number of parking spaces, with the primary goal of improving drop-off and accessibility to the
facility. One item not included in the example that was just called back from the MWMO is water quality
improvements and partnering on the work for that. Another item is to construct a primary building for
concessions, scores, and storage after the removal of the block garage building. Based on past reports we do
know that there is soil contamination on both sides of the park. Construction estimates have a few unknown
numbers to account for contaminated soil. There are electrical problems that serve this area and would need to
be completely redone at an estimate of almost $100,000. Stormwater improvements would be a shared cost at
an estimate of $400,000. Irrigation is identified on all three of the fields. The total estimated construction costs
approximately 3 million dollars.
Huset Park East. Part of the master plan involved moving Jefferson Street to fit in the pinwheel of the ballfields.
If that occurs the Jefferson building would be removed. The roadway would come out of other funds. A soccer
field would be introduced to the east side. The plan indicates replacing some of the amenities removed by the
road reconstruction. A shelter, small play area, and greenspace would be placed. Paved parking would be off
Jefferson Street with overflow grass parking. The adult ballfield would still have lights. A drainage pond is
required to treat runoff water and flood control. S Clerkin asked if there is a type of grass durable to withhold
having the carnival in the field. Hansen replied yes. The other items that help are athletic field mixes and if the
field has irrigation staff can maintain the condition of the fields. The construction cost estimate includes the
roadway at approximately 1.2 million, with a total estimate of 3.7 million.
Hansen concluded the 2023 updated estimate for everything is around 15 million. Staff would pursue and
continue to look at outside funding. The roadway costs would come out and there are opportunities to partner
with organizations such as the MWMO for stormwater improvements. It is estimated between 1.2 to 1.5 million
would come from outside funding. Hansen indicated the costs have increased from approximately 10 million to
15 million. The next step is to have a discussion with the financial consultant and look at different ways to
provide financing for this.
13
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights March 22, 2023
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting Page 6
Motion by S Clerkin, second by Peterson, to recommend the summary Parks Capital Improvement Plan to the
City Council for consideration of funding park improvements to complete renovations / updates to the City Park
System. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion Carried.
Peterson replied that this is a lot of money but for all the improvements as a whole it isn’t a lot of money. The
playground equipment costs have increased. Hansen replied that with the age of most of the playground
equipment in the city you cannot get parts to replace broken pieces. Many calls are received asking why there
isn’t a slide, and it is because staff cannot get anything to connect to the old equipment. B Clerkin asked what
the timeframe is for everything. Hansen replied the next step is to work with the bond consultant and present
that to the city council. It all depends on what the city council wants to do, are they willing to do this in a short
time frame or do they want to phase it in. Hansen feels the improvements will need to be phased in. The public
works building has to get replaced in its current condition.
Community Outreach
City Manager Bourgeois indicated there have been a lot of community events started during the 100th
Anniversary and a lot are continuing. The SnowBlast, Community Art & Info Fair, Pets in the Park, movies, and
music in the park. However, there is a gap. Bourgeois asked the commission if they are at other events, hear of
other ideas, or see ways to improve what is being offered to please let Hansen know or contact the Events
Coordinator Will Rottler in administration. Staff want to see the commission members be the ears and eyes on
the ground to give feedback on what we are offering. Please offer feedback on what is seen as a positive and
what can be improved. She invited the members to ask their neighbors and fellow community members as well.
Macko asked if there is a specific timeframe that staff would like feedback or is there a specific area or general
to the whole city. Bourgeois replied there is not a specific timeframe and staff are always open to feedback. She
indicated the members know the parks facilities well, Rottler also grew up in Columbia Heights, so he knows the
area well. Rottler tries to move events around the city to benefit the community as a whole and not burden one
specific park. Huset Park just tends to be the park used most often because of its size.
Reports
A. Recreation Director
Windschitl reported the Senior Citizen Coordinator, Delynn Mulligan, gave her notice of resignation. There were
some really good candidates that applied and interviewed. An offer was extended to Candy Lack and she
accepted. She used to work for the City and has continued to teach art classes to the seniors and active agers.
She already has a rapport with many of the senior participants.
Windschitl indicated the refrigerator has been replaced in the commercial kitchen at Murzyn Hall. He thanked
the Public Works staff for their help with the removal of the old one and getting the new one into the building.
B. Public Works Director/City Engineer
Hansen apologized for not knowing about the question of the charge at Wargo Court and will verify with Cullen.
He indicated that many things are just beyond replacement at Wargo Court.
The Public Works Department is looking for seasonal staff. Hansen asked the Commission to help spread the
work to anyone 18 years or older looking for a job. The seasonal wage has been adjusted and is now $17 per
hour for the summer.
Greenhalgh asked about filling potholes. Hansen indicated 37th Avenue is getting reconstructed this year and will
start in three or four weeks. There has been a lack of supply for filling the potholes because the season has been
14
Item 5.
City of Columbia Heights March 22, 2023
Park & Recreation Commission Minutes of the Meeting Page 7
so terrible. There is a blacktop plant opening on Monday which will be a long-term fix for the problem. Buesgens
indicated there is a report a pothole link on the City website.
C. Commission Members
Greenhalgh thanked S Clerkin for his time on the Commission as this meeting is the last one for his term.
S Clerkin proposed for the Commission to not have monthly meetings because it is not necessary to hold them
that frequently. There should be a meeting set for in the Fall and then as needed, conduct a meeting. When a
park is being developed there should be a meeting. During the park development process you could look to
former Commission members to see if they want to help be a part of the new developments. There is not a lot
of work that can be done so the Commission does not need to meet. S Clerkin feels we should move on from
requiring monthly meetings. Other than that, he has enjoyed his time on the Commission and the process.
B Clerkin indicated he will be resigning from the Commission and today is his last meeting as well. Bourgeois
informed B Clerkin that he will need to submit a written resignation. Greenhalgh thanked him for his service and
wished the Clerkin’s well with the Tasty Pizza business. S Clerkin replied they were very honored when Todd
Estrem approached them about taking over the business.
Buesgens invited the Commission to an 11:30 virtual MNDOT meeting tomorrow regarding the construction of
Central and University Avenues.
Greenhalgh asked what the status is of John P Murzyn Hall building updates. Hansen replied last week infrared
images were taken of the roof and exterior walls. That analysis needs to be incorporated into the final facility
analysis that will be given to the city council.
Greenhalgh adjourned the meeting at 7:15 pm.
Deanna Saefke, Recreation Secretary
15
Item 5.
To the Parks and Recreation Commission,
HeightsNEXT would like to request a waiver of the cost of renting Murzyn Hall (Main hall upstairs,the bar
area,the conference room,and the lower east-side bathrooms)for the Columbia Heights Beer Tasting
event “Cheers for Beers”on Friday,May 12 (Event from 6-9 pm).We request to use the building from
4:00 pm -10:00 pm.
Tentative schedule
●4:00 -5:45 pm setup
●6:00 pm Beer tasting begins
●8:30 pm Last call starts
●9:00 pm Beer tasting ends.Volunteers begin to clean up,and breweries leave.
●10:00 pm All guests and vendors will be out of the building.
Items to note
●ID’s will be checked by Municipal Liquor Store staff.
●HeightsNEXT will staff all other volunteer needs (registration,security,set up and clean up,etc.)
●Breweries will bring their own beer for the samples,and their own staff will handle all the pouring.
●HeightsNEXT will have a merchandise table with t-shirts,buttons,and stickers to fundraise for
HeightsNEXT.
●We plan to have 2 food trucks along Mill St.We would like the street in the front of the building
saved for those trucks.
●Tickets are needed to enter the event.$40 pre-sale,$45 at the door.21+event.We will pre-sell
tickets and limit ticket sales to the capacity of Murzyn Hall.
●The full ticket fee is a fundraiser for HeightsNEXT.
We submit this request because this event benefits our Municipal Liquor Store and our non-profit that
serves the city.We believe this partnership serves our city well.
1.Community gathering to provide a space for adults to connect.
2.Educate the public about our TOP VALU Municipal Liquor Store,its staff,and the brands they
carry.
3.Fundraiser for HeightsNEXT,a Columbia Heights 501(c)3 non-profit.All our events and activities
take place in Columbia Heights.We promote community building,sustainability,and resiliency.
Thank you for considering our request.
Mike Deneen
Cheers for Beers Co-Chair
Amáda Márquez Simula
Vice-President,HeightsNEXT
1
16
Item 6.
Park Bench donation by Nicole Peterson, installed at Prestemon Park
17
Item 7.