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Park & Recreation Commission Minutes January 12, 2000 Page 3 . redundant, since Orono Park is nearby. He felt that the playground equipment at Lake Orono needs to be upgraded. John Burkness, 18194 Hudson Lane, supported the walkways but not having picnic areas. Corey Peavy, 13323 182nd Lane, stated that nearly every home on her block has small children and she did not feel the residents want a trail behind their homes. Ms. Peavy stated that since Orono Park is close, a park is not needed. She stated that deer still walk through the area and she would like to see the park kept natural. AI Cannon, 13363 182nd Lane, asked if his taxes would go down if the park was developed, since he now pays higher taxes for being adjacent to the open space. Ms. McPherson suggested that Mr. Cannon contact the Sherburne County Assessor's Office for an answer to his question. She explained that if his taxes are higher. it is likely because he is adjacent to property that cannot be developed, and whether it is left wild or is more formally defined as a park will probably not make any difference. Mr. Cannon questioned what will happen to the wildlife. Mr. Wensman stated that the wildlife habitat will actually be improved by what is proposed. Mr. Cannon stated that he likes his privacy and felt that the path will bring people to the park. . Commissioner Kuester stated that the park is public land and residents of the city other than those living next to the park have the right to enjoy use of all parks. He noted the residents on 182nd Lane will still be able to use their property the way they currently do. Kris Lenertz, 13337 182nd Lane, did not feel a wood chip path was a good idea, since it could not be used for strollers, roller blades or bicycles. Ms. Lenertz stated that she liked the path the way it is now, a dirt path. Steve Wensman explained that in order to preserve the oak forest, the removal of the invasive species which do not belong is required. Ms. Lenertz stated she is in favor of the memorial and the trail. but she would like the trail moved to the edge of the park. She also wanted the center of the property and pathway left as it is. Steve Wensman explained that if the site is left as is, it will eventually be overgrown with undesirable brush and trees and will not be as desirable to wildlife. Christian Jasperson, 13311 182nd Lane, was concerned that having the wood chip trail would increase the use of the park and affect the privacy of the adjacent homeowners. He did not feel a park was needed in this area and suggested money be spent to make Orono Park more "user friendly". Mr. Jasperson expressed his support for the memorial. . Phil Hals explained that the developer of Country Crossings wanted to build houses where the park is now located. The Park and Recreation Commission helped to negotiate the dedication of the park land by giving up a significant amount of park fees in order to preserve the oak stand.