HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-03-02 MINUTESREGULAR MEETING
COTTAGE GROVE CITY COUNCIL
March 2, 2005
OPEN FORUM — 7:15 p.m.
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Open forum provides a person an opportunity to inform the Council of a problem or to request
information related to City business not scheduled for Council action and on the Agenda. Mayor
Shiely encouraged persons to limit their remarks to two (2) minutes per issue.
Present: Mayor Sandy Shiely
Council Member Myron Bailey
Council Member Karla Bigham
Council Member Mark Grossklaus
Council Member Pat Rice
Also Present: Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
Ron Hedberg, Finance and Administrative Services Director
Howard Blin, Community Development Director
Jennifer Levitt, City Engineer
Craig Woolery, Public Safety Deputy Director
Les Burshten, Public Works Director
Corrine Thomson, City Attorney
No one stepped forward to speak during Open Forum.
CALL TO ORDER
The City Council of the City of Cottage Grove, Washington County, Minnesota held a regular
meeting on Wednesday, March 2, 2005, at the Cottage Grove City Hall, 7516 80 Street South.
Mayor Sandy Shiely called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Sandy Shiely
Council Member Myron Bailey
Council Member Karla Bigham
Council Member Mark Grossklaus
Council Member Pat Rice
Also Present: Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
Ron Hedberg, Finance and Administrative Senrices Director
Howard Blin, Community Development Director
Jennifer Levitt, City Engineer
Craig Woolery, Public Safety Deputy Director
Les Burshten, Public Works Director
Corrine Thomson, City Attorney
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 2
Mayor Shiely presided over the meeting.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
MOTION BY BAILEY, SECONDED BY BIGHAM, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS
PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
PRESENTATIONS
NONE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. February 2, 2005 Regular Meeting
Mayor Shiely stated that she had one correction:
Page 5, Unfinished and New Business, Item A, second paragraph, second sentence:
John and Julie Lampert should be John and Julie Appert.
Mayor Shiely stated that the minutes stand approved as amended.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Bigham asked to pull Item 4.1. for discussion. She referenced the residents'
email request and asked for further clarification. City Engineer Levitt explained that the residents
have requested a feasibility report for the extension of sanitary sewer service to include an
extension that would be approximately 2,000 feet further to the east. She stated that this is an
addition to the original request for the 65� Street Sanitary Sewer extension. A Neighborhood
Meeting is scheduled for March 8, 2005 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber to discuss the
project details with the residents.
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY GROSSKLAUS, TO:
A. ACCEPT AND PLACE ON FILE THE FOLLOWING MINUTES:
i. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF JANUARY 11, 2005.
ii. PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION OF JANUARY 10, 2005.
B. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 05-024 RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT FOR
$12,107.18 TO ACE BLACKTOP FOR THE 2003A CURB AND PAVEMENT PROJECT.
C. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 05-025 RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT IN
THE AMOUNT OF $93,687.25 TO BURSCHVILLE CONSTRUCTION FOR THE PINE
SUMMIT 4 AND 5 ADDITIONS UTILITY, STREET AND STREET LIGHTING
PROJECT.
D. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 05-026 RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT IN
THE AMOUNT OF $12,995.30 TO THREE RIVERS CONSTRUCTION FOR THE TIMBER
RIDGE 5 ADDITION UTILITY, STREET AND STREET LIGHTING PROJECT.
E. APPROVE THE AMENDMENT TO THE ICMA CITY ADMINSTRATOR PENSION PLAN.
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 3
F. APPROVE THE APPOINTMENT OF SERGEANT GREG RINZEL TO REGULAR
STATUS WITH THE CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE.
G. APPOINT TERRY MILLER AND DAVID THIEDE TO THE INFRASTRUCTURE
MAINTENANCE TASK FORCE.
H. AUTHORIZE AN EXEMPTION FROM COTTAGE GROVE CITY CODE 5-3-3 AND 5-3-6
REGARDING THE DISCHARGE OF FIREARMS TO MR. JACOB JORDAN.
I. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 05-027 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
PREPARATION OF THE FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR THE 65 STREET SANITARY
SEWER EXTENSION.
J. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A P.B. ASPHALT PATCHER FROM ABM EQUIPMENT
AND SUPPLY FOR THE PURCHASE PRICE OF $49,246.67, WHICH INCLUDES
TRADE-IN AND SALES TAX.
K. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF ONE 2005 FORD F450, 4-WHEEL DRIVE REGULAR
CAB AND CHASSIS FROM ELK RIVER FORD FOR A PURCHASE PRICE OF
$25,291.55, PLUS SALES TAX AND LICENSE FEES.
L. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 05-028 RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT IN
THE AMOUNT OF $33,074.44 TO HYDROCON, INC. FOR THE PINE ARBOR 2
ADDITION UTILITY AND STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.
M. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF TWO NEW FREIGHTLINER M2 SINGLE-AXLE CAB
CHASSIS FROM I-STATE TRUCK, INC. FOR A TOTAL PURCHASE PRICE OF
$118,672.00, WHICH INCLUDES SALES TAX AND LICENSE.
N. APPROVE THE INSTALLATION OF 40,000 POUNDS OF CRAFCO 221 CRACK
SEALANT BY BROCK WHITE CO. AT $0.34 PER POUND.
O. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 05-029 RESOLUTION AMENDING SECTION 17 OF THE
PERSONNEL POLICY FOR THE CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE REGARDING
COMPENSATORY TIME.
I � [ � S � [� ] � [ � L� : T :7 � � il .� � a
RESPONSE TO PREVIOUSLY RAISED OPEN FORUM ISSUES
NONE
PUBLIC HEARINGS
NONE
BID AWARDS
NONE
UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS
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for the Aorii 3, 2005 to April 3, 2006 Policv Period.
City Administrator Schroeder referenced the table included in the memo stating that the premium
rating is determined based on several factors including payroll and a loss experience modifier.
Regular Meeting - Maroh 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 4
He provided Council with a brief overview of the process noting that City Clerk Caron Stransky is
in charge of the Risk Management and Safety programs. He stated that they expect to save just
under $100,000 with the resulting premium due to aggressive management of the risk areas. He
stated that Staff contacted Insurance Trust and asked how the City of Cottage Grove compares
to other communities noting that Cottage Grove is within the lowest ten percent of the 800
member cities covered by the Insurance Trust.
MOTION BY BAILEY, SECOND BY RICE, TO AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASE OF WORKERS
COMPENSATION COVERAGE IN THE AMOUNT OF $139,376.00 FROM THE LEAGUE OF
MINNESOTA CITIES INSURANCE TRUST FOR CITY EMPLOYEES AND ELECTED
OFFICIALS FOR THE APRIL 3, 2005 TO APRIL 3, 2006 POLICY PERIOD. MOTION CARRIED
5-0.
B. Receive Information reaardinp Infrastructure Maintenance Task Force and orovide
Feedback as aqqropriate.
City Engineer Levitt stated that the first meeting of the Infrastructure Maintenance Task Force
was held on Tuesday, February 22, 2005. She explained that the intent of the first meeting was
to provide a history and an overview of the goals for the group in regard to pavement
management and assessment policies. She fuRher explained that the intent was to solidify the
goals for both commercial and industrial areas adding that further information and detail would be
provided for discussion at the next meeting. Levitt stated that a link to the IMTF has been placed
on the City website noting that information would include meeting agendas, meeting minutes, and
handouts provided at the meetings.
City Administrator Schroeder stated that they provided a PowerPoint presentation that explained
the overall scope of the Task Force noting that the intent is to answer two questions: What is the
base level of service for different types of conditions and revisit the issues with the assessment
formulas for urban, rural, industrial and commercial areas with respect to maintenance and street
replacement. He clarified that new infrastructure and how it would be paid for and seal coating is
not included in the scope for this task force and it is not expected that this group would be
addressing these two issues.
C. Consider Aqprovinq a Site Plan Review of Two Commercial Structures to be located in the
8600 Block of West Point Douqlas Road. Northwest of Jamaica.
Community Development Director Blin stated that Kelco Real Estate Development has filed a site
plan review application to construct two commercial structures on approximately 3.9 acres of
land. He stated that the project is located northwest of Jamaica Avenue, between West Point
Douglas Road and the Soo Line Railroad tracks. He provided Council with an overview of the
location map and site plan noting that the Planning Commission reviewed the application at their
February 28, 2005 meeting. He stated that the site is fairly level noting that there would be a
difference in grading between West Point Douglas Road and the site. He stated that there would
be two access points to the site noting that the Planning Commission asked about the possibility
of adding a third access point. Blin stated that after reviewing the site it was determined that a
third access point would not be possible due to the grade. He stated that this review has been
expedited because the developer has potential tenants who would be moving from Cottage
Square to the new location. He stated that the Planning Commission has recommended approval
with the key recommendation that the front fa�ade of the south building be further enhanced.
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 5
The Planning Commission would like to ensure that similar design elements used on the north
building are carried over to the south building for a consistent look.
Jim Kellison, Kelco Inc., provided the Council with an overview of the proposed materials for the
two buildings. He noted that the east elevation for the south building is currently in the process of
evolving. He assured Council that they are working with potential tenants on a daily basis with
respect to the design of their spaces. Kellison reviewed the entry and service door locations and
the proposed building materials with Council.
Council Member Rice asked if they are proposing to use the same materials around the entire
building, whether there would be enough parking for all tenants, and whether there would be one
sanitation area servicing both buildings. Mr. Kellison confirmed that they are proposing to use the
same materials for both buildings to maintain a consistent look. He referenced the sanitation
area noting that all trash containers would be kept inside the building and brought out on pickup
day. He stated that they are providing 164 parking spaces and assured Council that the site
meets all parking requirements.
Council Member Bigham noted the driveway widths currently proposed are 24 feet, stating that
the City ordinance requires 32 feet. Mr. Kellison confirmed that the original proposal shows 24-
feet. He stated that based on their discussions with the Planning Commission, the width of the
driveways would be adjusted to meet the 32-foot requirement.
Council Member Bailey referenced the entry and pillars and asked if they would be projected out
dimensionally from the building. Mr. Kellison reviewed the entry and pillars noting that the entry
itself would project out from the building approximately three feet and reviewed the location for
the pillars with Council. He stated that both buildings would have the same detail.
Council Member Bailey asked for clarification on the signage for the buildings. Community
Development Director Blin stated that they would have one monument sign in addition to
individual tenant signage. He assured Council that the tenant signage would be in compliance
with the City's Sign Code.
Mayor Shiely clarified that they have requested that the site plan review be expedited due to the
relocation of the Cottage Square businesses. Community Development Director Blin confirmed
and stated that currently the building is scheduled for removal this fall and the tenants would have
to be relocated prior to that timeframe.
Mayor Shiely stated that she understands their need to expedite the process but expressed
concerns that the proposal does not include enough documentation with respect to the proposed
landscaping, the parking modifications, driveway access and width, details for the monument,
tenant signage, and detailed lighting for the buildings and surrounding area. She stated that Staff
should be completely informed as they move forward with the project. Community Development
Director Blin suggested that staff continue to work with Mr. Kellison on the details over the next
two weeks and provide Council with an update at the next Regular City Council meeting.
Council Member Bigham suggested that they table this decision for two weeks to allow staff more
time to work on the details. She expressed concerns stating that the current proposed resolution
is different from what should be approved.
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 6
Council Member Grossklaus asked how it would impact the project if Council tables their decision
for two weeks. Mr. Kellison suggested voting for approval of the concept and layouts with the
conditions that he return in two weeks to provide Council with further clarification and detail for the
signage, landscaping, parking, and access concerns.
City Attorney Thomson suggested that each Council Member provide their individual comments
for the project. She explained that if the Council votes for an approval of the current resolution it
is a final vote adding that they would then have to provide detail for any Council objections.
Community Development Director Blin stated that he does not want Mr. Kellison to leave
believing that the project has been pushed back. He reviewed the building permit process with
Council and assured Mr. Kellison that this would not delay the building permit process.
Council Member Rice stated that he would prefer to approve the entire package adding that his
preference would be to wait the two weeks before voting.
Council Member Bigham agreed stating that her biggest concern is the driveway and the ability
for delivery trucks and emergency vehicles to get through.
Mayor Shiely stated that she likes the project but would prefer that all details be addressed before
voting.
Council Member Grossklaus agreed stating that he does not have a problem with the project. He
stated that his concerns are with the use of space and asked that they provide more detail for
Items 1 through 23.
Council Member Bailey agreed stating that he would like to see further detail on the landscaping
plan. He stated that he would like them to determine a uniform sign package in order to maintain
consistency with all signage.
Mr. Kellison referenced the signage and asked for further direction on what the City would
require. Community Development Director Blin stated that he would review the City requirements
with Mr. Kellison.
MOTION BY BIGHAM, SECONDED BY RICE, TO TABLE THE ITEM TO THE MARCH 16, 2005
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
D. Consider a Reauest to Establish a Railroad Quiet Zone at the River Acres Road Railroad
Crossinq.
Community Development Director Blin provided the Council with a brief history stating that the
Federal Railroad Administration has been working to develop a set of new rules, with a more
uniform approach for the sounding of train horns at rail crossings. He stated that they are ready
to begin accepting applications from communities for the creation of a quiet zone at specific
railroad crossings. He stated that the key factors considered are traffic volume and safety
records for the intersection. He reviewed the minimum improvements that would be required in
order to get the quiet zone with Council. He stated that a neighborhood meeting was held on
October 14, 2004 to discuss the process for applying for a quiet zone designation with the
residents. He stated that Staff has made it clear that if improvements are required and Council
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 7
orders the improvements that the City would then recommend assessing the improvements
against the properties in the area that would benefit from the quiet zone designation. Blin stated
that the Public Safety Commission reviewed the proposal in January to determine if it would
diminish the level of safety and reviewed the requirements for horn sounding with Council. He
noted that the Public Safety Commission recommended that the City submit their application for
the quiet zone designation.
Community Development Director Blin explained that the rules were established to create uniform
national procedures adding that this would supercede the local whistle ban ordinances. The rules
require trains to sound their horns 15 to 20 seconds before entering a crossing. The minimum
sound level for the horns is 96 decibels with a maximum of 110 decibels. Blin reviewed the
required factors for approval with the Council noting that the FRA has developed a computer
model that uses these factors to calculate a risk factor for the crossing. He stated that depending
upon the risk factor, quiet zones could be approved with no necessary improvements to the
crossing. He stated that the River Acres Road area residents have requested that the City apply
for the establishment of a quiet zone at the Burlington Northern Santa Fe crossing and reviewed
the petition with Council.
Council Member Grossklaus noted that the information provided in their packet shows that
approximately $4,000 to $5,000 per year would have to be paid by the City to Burlington NoRhern
and asked for further clarification. Community Development Director Blin stated that BNSF would
send the City an annual bill for maintenance. He stated that they also charge for the increment
needed to maintain the extra gate arms adding that this would be the only one the City would be
charged for, as it wouid be the only quiet zone located in Cottage Grove.
Council Member Bailey asked if there would be any risks to the City, from a legal standpoint, as
to whether they have or not have a designated quiet zone. City Attorney Thomson explained that
the kind of decision they are making is a classic way to consider financial, safety and social
considerations. She further explained that typically when Council makes decisions involving this
type of policymaking, the City has discretionary immunity on claims. She stated that she would
need to research further to determine the full liabilities.
Mayor Shiely asked City Attorney Thomson to do further research on the liability issues and
provide a repoR for Council review.
Linda Coltert, 8077 River Acres Road, referenced the financial issue stating that many are in
favor of the designation adding that many would rethink their point of view if they knew they would
be responsible for a financial hit. She stated that the residents are very much in favor of the quiet
zone adding that they would like further detail with respect to the financial impacts. She agreed
that the horns could be easily missed adding that the arm would provide additional safety.
Community Development Director Blin reviewed the process stating that the initial stage of the
process is to send in the application requesting designation. He stated that they would then hear
back in regard to the required qualifications and Staff would then review the requirements with the
residents and Council. He assured the residents that Council is not making a final commitment at
this time.
Kent Burn, 8279 River Acres Road, stated that residents can go to the Federal Railroad
Administration website and create the quiet zone. He explained that the tool creates a scenario
and risk factor that utilizes a nationwide threshold. He further explained that the tool would show
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove Ciry Council
Page 8
the car traffic count, the number of trains per day, the maximum timetable and speed, the number
of highway lanes, and the number of years for accident free data. He noted that Cottage Grove is
currently under the national risk threshold.
Mayor Shiely acknowledged that this is the beginning of the process and is a way of getting
further information. She stated that once Council receives the information they would then be
able to assess and determine the direction they want to go with the application. She referenced
the median and expressed concerns that if they were to have a median and totaliy do away with
any means of getting around the drop arms that there could be traffic issues. She stated that
there are known problems with the arms coming down and staying down and asked if this wouid
be addressed. Community Development Director Blin acknowledged that the arms actually could
fail on the download noting that if there were a power failure the arms would come down and stay
down. Mayor Shiely stated that the Railroad would have to take this into consideration noting that
there is only one way in and out of the area for emergency vehicles.
MOTION BY BAILEY, SECONDED BY GROSSKLAUS, TO AUTHORIZE SUBMITTAL OF AN
APPLICATION TO THE FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION FOR A RAILROAD QUIET
ZONE AT THE RIVER ACRES ROAD RAILROAD CROSSING. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
E. Presentation bv U S Homes Corporation on the Pinecroft — Phase II Proiect.
Jay Liberacki, US Homes, provided Council with an overview of the sketch plan proposal for the
east area of the project. He indicated that the site has a lot of bedrock that has affected the
placement for lots and ponding. He stated that both the City Council and the Parks Commission
have expressed the need for a strong trail link in the area noting that a future trail connecting
them with Highland Hills will be incorporated into the site plan. He stated that the existing
fencerow of trees along the north edge of the property would be retained noting that they have
done extensive landscaping along the perimeter streets that reflects the original proposal. He
stated that he has worked with Staff to identify the sidewalks and trails on the west side. He
stated that they want to be sure that the half park and the trail system makes sense when it ties in
with the East Ravine System and reviewed the trails and sidewalk systems with Council. He
stated that they have worked closely with engineering to ensure that all concerns for stormwater
are addressed.
Council Member Bailey referenced Outlot D and asked if there would be reasonable access to the
interior pond for maintenance. City Engineer Levitt stated that they have been very
accommodating with respect to providing access.
Council Member Bailey referenced the exempt parcel and asked if the intent is to create a cul-de-
sac. Community Development Director Blin confirmed that the cul-de-sac is the only way that it
could be done.
Council Member Bailey referenced the proposed City Park and asked if they would do anything
with the property or would they wait until something is developed across the road. Community
Development Director Blin stated that they are currently reviewing the area and noted that the
property owner wants to do a land deal with the landowner. He stated that it is their hope to have
both sides of the site graded to begin the development of the park adding that they would not do
a lot of development until both sides have been addressed.
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 9
Council Member Bailey referenced Outlot D and asked if they would work with them on the
landscaping. Community Development Director Blin confirmed.
Council Member Grossklaus asked for further clarification on the amenities that would be
included with the park. Community Development Director Blin explained that the developer would
only be responsible for the grading. He further explained that the City would be responsible for
the design and maintenance of the park.
Council Member Rice asked if this area would provide enough space for a City park. Community
Development Director Blin confirmed that it would be large enough noting that along the East
Ravine Parkway is another City park of similar size.
Council Member Rice expressed concerns stating that they are not seeing a large amount of
open space around the ponding areas or within the development. He stated that he is not
convinced that there is enough open space on the east side of Hinton, north of 65`" and asked for
further clarification. Mr. Liberacki agreed that the original plan did not have any open space
adding that it was not initially anticipated that there would be walking areas open for use by the
public.
Mayor Shiely asked if this proposal has fewer housing sites than the original proposal. Mr.
Liberacki confirmed that there are fewer sites noting that there are approximately 20 to 25 less.
City Administrator Schroeder indicated that one of their constant frustrations, as it relates to the
parks, is that a subdivision goes in, they set aside land for a park and somewhere along the way
the land goes away and a few years later the City has to work to determine what type of park
would best fit the area. He indicated that at that time they would tend to run into all types of
issues in developing the area adding that it is important for all participants, the City Council and
the developer, to figure out the park area in order to ensure that it is developed to the correct
standards and requirements. He stated that they want to do a final design of the park now in
order to be prepared for future construction. Mr. Liberacki agreed adding that this would allow
them to provide the appropriate disclosures to all potential buyers.
RESPONSE TO PREVIOUSLY RAISED COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS
A. NPDES Fundinp — Letter to Conaressman John Kline.
Mayor Shiely reviewed stating that City Administrator Schroeder, at Councils' direction, sent a
letter to Congressman John Kline regarding the stormwater utility fee increases and the City's
concerns.
Council Member Grossklaus suggested sending this letter to all of their representatives to get
feedback. Council Member Rice agreed.
COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS
Council Member Grossklaus asked Staff to direct all developers to follow the standards and
requirements. He expressed concerns stating that he would like to make sure that all developers
understand the City's expectations in regard to proposed developments in Cottage Grove.
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 10
Mayor Shiely agreed noting that one thing that does bother her is the dividing line between
Cottage Grove and Woodbury. She noted that the new homes in the Orrin Thompson
development would be three to five acre lots adding that this is not good planning to have such
differences between developments that are so close. She stated that the City would be working
with Woodbury as they move forward to begin development along the borders in the East Ravine.
She stated that the development along the Cottage Grove side would be very dense in
comparison next to an urban rural development and expressed concerns that it would be too
obvious of a difference. She noted that one of the main reasons the Metropolitan Council was
established was to create a good flow between cities adding that this is not a good flow. She
stated that they want to maintain a good communication with their neighbors as they continue
with the development in the East Ravine in order to ensure a good flow between developments.
Councii Member Bailey asked Staff to provide Council with an update at the next Regular meeting
on the remaining tenants at the Cottage Grove Square.
PAY BILLS
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY BIGHAM, TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF CHECK
NUMBERS 138810 THROUGH 138959 TOTALING $498,251.61. (CHECKS 138810 — 138827
IN THE AMOUNT OF $51,063.80 ISSUED PRIOR TO COUNCIL APPROVAL.) MOTION
CARRIED 5-0.
WORKSHOP SESSION — OPEN
A. Inqraham and Associates — Park Facilitv Studv
Greg Ingraham of Ingraham and Associates, provided Council with a review of the Park Facility
Study. He stated that they are planning an Open House for the Community in March adding that
he would like to receive comments from Council prior to the Open House.
Mr. Ingraham stated that the task is straightforward and explained that they are reviewing current
and future recreation needs that would result in recommendations for facility improvements,
including a possible indoor recreation community center. He stated that they have received input
from the stakeholders, CTGA and Staff in addition to performing a detailed inventory of the
facilities. He noted that in general, City parks are consistently ranked as one of the top reasons
why people move to a specific community in addition to the strong interest in the health benefits
and sports specialization. He noted that area parks also increase property values up to a mile
away.
Mr. Ingraham stated that Cottage Grove has a good supply of parks per capita and indicated the
national standard minimum is 11 acres per 1,000 residents. He stated that the unique thing
about Cottage Grove is the good trail system connections and the good communication between
the school system and the City with respect to the consideration for all uses of the facilities. He
stated that one deficiency is frequency of use and the lack of access to the Mississippi River.
Mr. Ingraham reviewed service area standards with the Council noting two specific criteria:
population and area. He stated that there are some existing shortages, in baseball, softball,
soccer, and hockey and indicated that they found a need for larger baseball, soccer and softball
fields and an additional indoor hockey arena. Ingraham provided Council with an overview of the
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 11
current local facilities adding that this has been discussed further with the Parks Commission. He
noted that in comparison to other communities the City of Cottage Grove has very few
deficiencies adding that the planning that Staff and the various Commissions have done would
address the deficiencies and concerns. Ingraham recommended that the City look at and
evaluate the cost benefit of an indoor rink, the location and the revenue that it would generate and
then, based on the findings, determine the need for an additionat arena. He indicated that, based
on the current population growth, additional facilities would be needed in the future to service the
projected growth.
Mr. Ingraham stated that the access to park areas could be improved and he recommended
including a review of the Mississippi River area for potential boat access sites, as currently there
is not much access to the river for recreation activities. He indicated that some of the park
shelters could use renovation and stated that a partnership with the youth athletics organizations
within the community could work very well in accomplishing the renovations as a joint effort.
Mr. Ingraham provided the Council with an overview of the draft recommendations, the ongoing
and the long-term priorities, and the Community Center needs. He stated that the next step in
the process would be a potential public Open House in March. He stated that he would
incorporate the feedback into the final report and provide Council with an update for their review.
Council Member Bigham stated that she would be interested in seeing all available options for the
Community Center. Mr. Ingraham indicated that he has a summary of all community centers in
Minnesota, adding that he would provide the Council with a copy of the summary for their review.
Council Member Bailey suggested tying in with the school district and work together to determine
their needs along with the City. He agreed that from a recreational standpoint the summary
should include some form of indoor water facility. Mr. Ingraham stated that there are many
options available for the City to consider noting that due to construction and operating costs that
they would need to do a market research study. He recommended that Council review the
options and types of use, in combination with school athletics and general use by the public.
Council Member Bailey suggested that Staff clarify all options and uses for indoor hockey arenas
and area hockey rinks.
Mayor Shiely stated that she would like further information on all available options for potential
boat and recreation access to the Mississippi River.
Council Member Bigham asked if any information is available for dog parks. Mr. Ingraham stated
that they are relatively familiar with dog parks adding that it is somewhat of a geographic market.
He stated that currently he is not aware of the locations of dog parks in this area adding that dog
parks are well-utilized parks throughout the year. He noted that dog parks are also very low
maintenance and should be located carefully due to public perception of the park as a nuisance.
He suggested buffering or locating dog parks by an industrial or open space area.
Council Member Rice asked if they have any dollar figures or estimates available for Council to
review and asked if the list of options and costs would be incorporated in the final report. Mr.
Ingraham stated that they have examples of the costs to build a community center and confirmed
that the information would be included in the final report.
Regular Meeting — March 2, 2005
Cottage Grove Ciry Council
Page 12
WORKSHOP SESSION — CLOSED
NONE
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY BIGHAM, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:45 P.M.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Bonita Sullivan
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
REQUEST OF CITY COUNCIL ACTION COUNCIL AGENDA
MEETING ITEM # �. �.
DATE 3/16/05
PREPARED BY Administration Ryan Schroeder
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT STAFF AUTHOR
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COUNCIL ACTION REQUEST
Presentation: Park High ROTC Color Guard—Pledge of Allegiance.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
❑ MEMO/LETTER:
❑ RESOLUTION:
❑ ORDINANCE:
❑ ENGINEERING RECOMMENDATION:
❑ LEGAL RECOMMENDATION:
❑ OTHER:
ADMINISTRATORS COMMENTS:
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City Administrator Date
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COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: ❑ APPROVED ❑ DENIED [�OTHER
G:\City Council\Council Action Forms�2005\ROTC Color Guard.doc