09-11-2025 HPC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Heritage Preservation Commission Minutes Page 3 of 5 September 11, 2025 water tower site could include QR codes that gave more information. Commissioner Lindberg mentioned that people are reluctant to walk across Highway 10. Mr. Carlton stated that there is a possibility of working with MnDOT for a delay in the lights to allow safer pedestrian crossing across Highway 10. The Commission discussed options to improve crossing Highway 10 as a pedestrian. Councilmember Calva questioned who would decide what history to put on the signage at the site. Mr. Carlton stated the Commission would be part of the process. Commissioner Campbell added that history of the fire could be incorporated, perhaps including modern fire prevention tips using a QR code. She also added that the history of the water tower should be included. She asked what time frame should be included and if space should be left for future additions. Ms. Meulners-Comstock reviewed that, once a plan was determined, Mend Collaborative could look at cost estimates and consider funding sources. Councilmember Calva stated he liked the Journey concept. He was attracted to the sloped lawn in the Community concept but wondered if people would actually go there to lie in the grass. He commented on the green space in the downtown parking lot and that few people use the picnic tables located there. Commissioner Lindberg agreed. Commissioner Campbell discussed real grass versus artificial turf. She felt the Community concept appeared more restrictive and the stairs seemed unnecessary. There seemed to be more places to sit in the Journey concept plan. Ms. Meulners-Comstock agreed that the Journey concept had more opportunity to scale if there was a gap or increase in funding. Commissioner Griffiths added that there was ongoing discussion about acquiring a nearby parcel on an adjacent lot and going with the Journey concept may be easier to connect. Commissioner Griffiths stated he liked the Journey concept with incorporating ideas from the Community concept such as the boardwalk. He liked the official look of stairs, as Councilmember Calva had stated, but agreed that they presented issues with materials and accessibility. He asked if, instead of the water feature going through the map, it could go through the timeline stones along the arc. Ms. Meulners-Comstock stated the Journey concept could be revised to explore the options of a boardwalk and channeling water to go toward the timeline area. The Commissioners discussed what is currently located under the water tower. They also discussed locations for stairs and added that a platform could be a good place for a photo opportunity of the water tower. Ms. Meulner-Comstock discussed planting design. The Commission agreed that multi -stemmed trees could be closer to Jackson Ave to provide some privacy. Trees species should not grow too tall to block views of the water tower but include ornamental trees. Commissioner Griffiths commented on trees to provide shade and add autumn interest. Mr. Carlton stated his favorite tree was the Autumn