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Park & Recreation Commission Minutes January 12. 2000 Page 4 . A member of the audience questioned what the budget was for the park improvements. Michele explained that $9,000 has been budgeted which includes the prairie restoration, installation of the wood chip trail. the memorial site and seeding or sodding of the proposed grassy areas. Commissioner Dave Anderson explained that 90 percent of the woods would have been lost if the plat would have been approved as originally presented. The goal of the Commission is to preserve the oak forest. He felt that the pathway would actually help keep people away from the residences. Steve Wensman noted that the plantings would create a natural buffer. Commissioner Dana Anderson stated that the prairie grasses at Woodland Trails have proved to be a great attraction for birds and wildlife. Commissioner Olson agreed that the pathway would focus people onto a specific area, rather than wandering all over the park. He felt that the proposal will beautify the park. Discussion followed regarding location of the trail. and burning of the underbrush as part of the prairie restoration. steve Wensman stated that the trail could possibly be moved slightly further away from the residences. . Phil Hals stated that the residents of Country Crossings who do not live next to the park have expressed the desire for some open space to walk or throw a Frisbee. He explained that when parks are left wild and there is no regular maintenance of the vegetation, people tend to use them for composting, dumping and parking of vehicles. Mark Ogren, 18199 Hudson, stated that he foresees every resident living along the park putting up a privacy fence. He felt the city should focus on other maintenance issues such as the goose problem at Orono Park and dandelions on the berm along Orono Parkway. Commissioner Dana Anderson stated that in order to keep the oak forest healthy, some trees will need to be removed. He felt $9,000 for improvements was a relatively small amount to spend for the benefit which would be quickly realized. He supported the trail to provide controlled flow through the park. He felt that without the trail, kids would make their own trail in a less desirable location. Commissioner Anderson felt the planting proposed next to the residences would provide privacy. Ms. McPherson suggested that the improvements could be phased in, beginning with the plantings near the residences and working out toward Orono Parkway. She stated that Mr. Wensman has provided a detailed forest management plan to protect what is there and take out what doesn't belong or doesn't support the oaks. By starting with the buffer, the privacy of the residents would be enhanced before taking out the unwanted trees and brush. . COMMISSIONER KUESTER MOVED TO AMEND THE CONCEPT FOR COUNTRY CROSSING PARK AS PRESENTED WHICH INCLUDES A MEMORIAL RESTING/GARDEN