09-09-1998 PR MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Park & Recreation Commission Minutes September 9. 1998 Page 6 e Discussion followed regarding plans to inform the public of the referendum proposal. Plans include taping the October 6th informational meeting so that it may be aired on cable T.V. and also, the tape from Jeff Asfahl. Pat Klaers indicated that it was important to utilize the Star News as much as possible to inform the public of the referendum. Further discussion followed regarding the location of the pool, closing of Gary Street. parking needs and staffing for the pool. Pat noted that opening of a pool may necessitate the establishment of a Park & Recreation Director position for the city. Also. the impact of the pool on the 4th of July celebration and on the Minnesota Sports Federation's plans was discussed. Pat Klaers indicated a one year construction time line is projected. Commissioner Kuester indicated Mr. Burbach explained that the pool would likely open in May, 2000 with a trial period to train the staff and then a grand opening would be held after the training was completed. Commissioner Huberty returned to the meeting at this time (10:10 p.m.) 12. Park & Recreation Commission Recommendation for Future Park Dedication Fees e Phil Hals indicated that the Park and Recreation Commission may wish to consider a recommendation to the Council for future park dedication fees, as no fees have been set beyond 1998. He noted the 1998 fee is $650 per lot. The Commissioners requested that surrounding communities be surveyed regarding park dedication fees and the results will be reviewed at the October meeting for a recommendation to the Council. Phil Hals indicated that when park dedication fees were first established, 10 percent of the land value and "per lot" park dedication fees were comparable. Due to increased value in land, the "per lot" fees have become out of balance with land values and do not come close to covering the increasing demands being placed on the development of the park and recreation system. Commissioner Anderson indicated that many communities have a park dedication fee of $1 ,500 per lot. He noted that the county board will be considering an initial $600 per lot park dedication fee at a public hearing on Tuesday, September 15th at 11 :00 a.m. and he encouraged the Commissioners to attend. CHAIR ANDERSON MOVED THAT STAFF SURVEY SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES REGARDING PARK DEDICATION FEES AND TRAIL FEES. COMMISSIONER KUESTER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 5-0. Chair Anderson suggested the market value for lots in the surveyed cities be obtained in order to compare park dedication fees to the land values. e It was the consensus of the Commissioners to include language in the recommendation to the City Council that a distinction be made between wetlands and dry, usable land when accepting property as payment for park dedication.