01-05-2021
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Fridley Municipal Center
7071 University Ave NE, Fridley MN 55432
MEETING MINUTES of January 5, 2021
Chair Heinz called the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
Members Present: Mike Heintz, EB Graham, Peter Borman, Dave Kondrick, Shanna Larson, and Ryan
Gerhard
Others Present: Mike Maher, Springbrook Nature Center Director/Assistant Director CSER; Jeff
Jensen, Operations Manager for Streets, Parks and Facilities; Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner,
Deborah Dahl, Director of Community Services and Employee Resources (CSER); and Scott Lund,
Mayor
1. APPROVE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA FOR JAN. 5, 2021
A MOTION was made by Commissioner Kondrick to approve the agenda for January 5, 2021.
Seconded by Commissioner Larson. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.
2. APPROVE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES FOR NOV. 2, 2020
A MOTION was made by Commissioner Kondrick to approve the November 2, 2020 meeting
minutes. Seconded by Commissioner Graham. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.
3. NEW BUSINESS/ACTION ITEMS:
a. Moore Lake Clean Water Fund (CWF) Grant Award (Rachel Workin)
Environmental Planner Rachel Worked made a presentation about the Moore Lake Clean Water
Improvement Project and Grant Award. She stated that Moore Lake does have impairments for
Phosphorus, which leads to algae blooms. The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) approved in 2015
calls for a reduction of 25%. There are known E. Coli spikes of 8,164 mpn/100mL (<1260 mpn/100mL).
A survey about the use of Moore Lake was conducted by the City in 2016 showed that 56% of
respondents were concerned about algae and 67% concerned about bacteria and E. coli. The
stormwater runoff includes 638-acre drainage area including the lake with pollutants, waste, etc. The
analysis by the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) indicated the Gardena Avenue stormwater
project included a 94-acre drainage outfall area a top priority for improvement of water quality.
The City has contracted the project with Wenck, an engineering firm, who provided a preliminary
design calling for an estimated removal of 18 pounds of phosphorus per year along with 1,263 pounds
of sediment.
The City was awarded a grant in the amount of $400,000, which included a match from the
RCWD/Stormwater Utility Fund. The grant agreement will go before the Council in February, with the
design completed in 2021, followed by construction in 2022.
Commissioner Kondrick said that the City has been having troubles with this lake for a long-time
including issues with E Coli.
Chair Heintz asked how this different from the plan that was set up two years ago?
Ms. Workin replied that the original plan had shown a settlement basin to slow water down so the
sediment can flow away. Since that time, there have been advances that are being used in the Metro
area. This would have the same sediment removal component with more phosphorus removal
capabilities.
Chair Heinz asked if the area of the Gardena Avenue intersection would be enhanced.
Ms. Workin replied that this would not impact that project.
Commissioner Borman asked how many stormwater discharges were going into Moore Lake.
Ms. Workin replied that there are outlets by the tennis courts and Gardena Avenue into East Moore
Lake and drains into West Moore Lake. This particular location was identified as top priority.
Commissioner Borman asked if other locations that could be tested would also have higher or similar
results for E Coli and phosphorus.
Ms. Workin replied yes, other water bodies have similar pollution concerns.
Commissioner Borman thought this could be done for all of the City’s lakes and ponds.
Ms. Workin replied that it comes down to space as many areas fall into private property and the City
doesn’t have access to the space and that there were also financial concerns that always make projects
difficult.
Commissioner Kondrick asked how the pollution control agency looks at discharging contaminated
waters into the water.
Ms. Workin replied that the City has a MS4 permit to allow the City to operate storm sewer systems
for this type of runoff. The City has to demonstrate TMDL requirements are being met and if they are
not met, a schedule would need to be provided on how the City would remedy that situation.
Commissioner Kondrick asked if there was any other way to divert the water.
Jeff Jensen, Operations Manager, replied that the water needs to be sent through these treatment
areas and a large area is needed to do that.
Ms. Workin added that there are requirements by MPCA for new construction to meet storm water
treatment guidelines but that doesn’t apply to single family homes. Much of Fridley was constructed
before there were requirements in place. If they do any reconstruction, however, the new stormwater
requirements would need to be met.
Commissioner Larson asked for explanation of the pounds per algae treatment.
Ms. Workin replied that a pound of phosphorus will change depending on the lake. For every pound
of phosphorus, additional algae is added because algae dies off and bacteria grows and then there
isn’t enough oxygen to support the fish population.
Commissioner Larson asked how the sand is flushed.
Ms. Workin replied that the system pretreatment is trying to remove as much sediment before it gets
into the sand. Sand does have to be raked and overtime, the iron binds and has to be replaced.
Chair Heinz asked if the maintenance that is performed is replacing pretreatment structures or it the
City had to remove and replace the sand.
Mr. Jensen said that the longevity of this is unknown. The sand must have a certain thickness and city
maintenance staff stir the sand, which is the most productive. They bring in a roto tiller and fluff up
the sand but after so many years, if levels climb then the sand is removed and replaced with new
sand.
No action was needed by the Park and Recreation Commission at this time. Staff will bring information
back to the Commission as the project progresses.
b. Review of Street Vacation Notification (Debbie Dahl)
Ms. Dahl reported that an informational memo was provided in the agenda packet that summarized
action taken at the City Council on 1/4/2021 for a street vacation request. The request was initiated
by the homeowner who were interested in acquiring the additional land to build a garage addition or
a detached garage. Planning staff have been working with the homeowner at 1631 66 ½ Avenue to
create the approved solution.
She reported that project or agreement does not involve a City Park, however, the undeveloped parcel
provides an access to the Lock Park trail system. She stated that the request approved last night at
the City Council meeting and no action was required from the Park and Rec Commission. Members
were provided the memo as a courtesy and for their information.
Scott Lund, Mayor, was in attendance and provided additional background and information that was
discussed at the Council meeting. He summarized the agreement for the commissioners and that the
Fridley homeowner will maintain the segment of the former road, which it isn’t currently plowed or
paved. Council approved the vacation agreement on a 5-0 vote.
c. Craig Park Update (Jeff Jensen)
Mr. Jensen reported that staff have been working on the water issues at Craig Park. An engineering
firm was hired to perform bore samples. A drawing and workplan has been created to work on getting
water out of residents’ yards. Staff is meeting with contractors for tree removal, park improvement,
and pricing on the trail connections. Once the plans are finalized, staff will start doing community
outreach and invite neighbors and the surrounding neighborhoods for ideas and input.
Commissioner Kondrick asked if we would be able to keep the current size of the tennis court.
Mr. Jensen replied that one of the tennis courts would be removed to fix the water problem and the
size of the other will be determined from the public input. He reported the use of the tennis courts
has reduced, but if there is still a demand or need, the tennis court may be redone.
d. Locke Park Playground Update (Jeff Jensen)
Mr. Jensen reported the playground at Locke Park is 90% completed, stating that the parking lot is in
and the trails are all connected. Supplies like garbage cans, bike racks, and benches have been
purchased and will be installed this spring. He added that the first attempt at a bee lawn will be put
in this spring since there is no soil right now and will be a test for the other parks. He stated that
public outreach efforts are showing that they are asking for natural grass for the parks and this area
is the perfect spot for a bee lawn. Staff will also be working on a shade structure with a picnic area
and adding some trees.
e. Parks Master Plan Update (Debbie Dahl and Jeff Jensen)
Ms. Dahl provided an update about the Parks Master Plan, stating that the City hired the consulting
firm of WSB to develop conceptual plans and provide a final report. Candace Amberg, P.L.A. from
WSB is the Project Manager. Jeff Jensen is the Lead for the City. The scope of the project has been
refined to include a final plan document and larger community parks. The kick-off meeting was held
with staff on October 14 to confirm the plans vision and goals with the following key initiatives:
Enhance the unique identity of community parks
Update amenities throughout the system
Increase connectivity within the park system
Environmental stewardship
Maintenance (Systematic Plan)
Update park entrances and overall aesthetics
Create more appealing amenities for users
She reported that the consulting firm’s activities to date included data gathering from current studies
and plans; a review of the pedestrian access and connectivity; identified opportunities, systems,
networks for public outreach; developing a virtual story map in coordination with GIS Mapping
functions for the City’s website; a system analysis was performed on service areas, demographic
populations as well as identifying needs and priorities. Revenue sources and budget has been
considered, too. Implementation strategies and concept plans are started, and several meetings have
been held on what will be needed for community engagement, a resident survey, and a marketing
campaign.
Ms. Dahl mentioned there is a story map being developed for the City’s website with an interactive
map using multi-media functions. The City can post information, photos, videos, and create stories.
This allows people to share information and the City can collect more feedback, like what has been
done with Social Pinpoint. This map will be linked to different platforms and incorporates information
about other things in the community, encourages exploration and becomes a part of the City’s
website. The beginning of the map will be available on January 18 on the City’s website.
The next steps include resident survey questions to be determined related to the Parks Master Plan.
Staff will also review concept plans and estimates with possible funding strategies.
Ms. Dahl asked the Commission members if they were interested in participating in a joint meeting
with City Council and Park and Recreation Commission to review the plan and provide initial feedback.
Staff wants to make sure the Commission is comfortable with the information before it is rolled out
to the public.
Commissioner Borman asked if any discussions have taken place on how to pay for this.
Ms. Dahl replied that it is too soon to tell. In the original report a number of funding sources were
identified. There are options like referendums, grants, public trust groups, etc. Once we have the
budget, we can figure out the phases and how we would accomplish the funding.
No formal vote was taken, however, the members agreed to participate. Ms. Dahl said that the date
th
would be sent out to members and would be on Feb. 9.
f. Deer Management Program Update (Mike Maher)
Springbrook Nature Center Director/Assistant Community Services Director Mike Maher provided an
update on the deer management program, which was adopted by Council last year and will be
implemented again this winter. He reviewed the goal of the plan which was to control the population
and to educate the public about white-tailed deer.
He summarized the elements of the plan which are: to foster an appreciation for the species and their
role in a healthy natural or suburban environment; to reduce the number of citizen complaints related
to deer which are often related to vegetation damage; to recommend the use of non-lethal methods
to minimize deer damage which may include vegetation management, exclusion/fencing, repellents
and harassing; to reduce the annual number of deer-vehicle collisions within the City of Fridley; to
prevent damage to and maintain the health of native plant communities within Fridley’s parks and
natural areas. Staff will actively monitor the deer population within the City through data
collection/counts, citizen records, vehicle collision data, and aerial surveys.
In addition, staff will work with other state of federal entities to control deer population levels at or
under the recommended 15-20 deer per any quarter mile level. USDA Wildlife Services will be
contracted work on the deer removal and cost not to exceed $5,000 and will be consistent with other
procedures and processes they oversee.
The Fridley Public Safety Department will also be involved to provide support and oversight along
with communication to residents.
A DNR permit has been approved and allows for the removal of up to 30 deer. Four sites have been
identified based on the required safety plan, local partnerships and aerial survey data received. Those
sites include: Locke Park, Cummins Power Generation and Springbrook Nature Center,
Any harvested deer are processed through the USDA controls with meat is donated to food shelves.
Staff will be developing education pieces about wildlife feeding and how to discourage property
damage from deer are planned for the coming months.
Commissioner Kondrick asked what type of weapons would be used.
Mr. Maher replied high powered rifles and used with night vision technology. He added that the
bullet used is designed to not pass through the animal.
Commissioner Borman asked about the deer population in the southern part of the City by the
waterworks plant and along the river.
Mr. Maher replied that the survey data received is just a snapshot of the deer population in Fridley.
Staff looked at all the data and utilizing the Nature Center and along Locke Park seem to be the
locations of greatest need.
Commissioner Borman asked who maintains the deer population at the City of Minneapolis water
works plant.
Mr. Maher replied he believes the City of Minneapolis.
g. Winter Lights Contest (Debbie Dahl)
Ms. Dahl reported the Winter Lights Contest that was held in December very well received. No prizes
were offered since it was a new event, but 18 homes entered a display. All homes were on the City’s
website and people could print map for self-guided tour. Staff was able to track the website activity
and it was well-used. Staff is looking into offering this every year and there is a video featured on the
City’s website about the event.
h. Winterfest 2021 (Debbie Dahl)
Ms. Dahl reported that Winterfest will look a little different this year due to COVID but the City is still
planning to have this event the week of January 23-31. People can do self-guided activities with a
passport option to go to locations and get a stamp to designate where they have been. More
information will be available on the City’s website.
4. STAFF REPORTS:
a. Springbrook Nature Center (Mike Maher)
Mr. Maher reported the Springbrook Nature Center is still operating but at limited service due to
COVID restrictions.
He highlighted from his written report that Caden Barber from Troup #9106 was an Eagle Scout who
donated a project by designing and installing interpretive signs at Springbrook. Mr. Maher stated
that staff continues to work with schools to do on-site lessons at the schools as they return back to
the classroom. International Paper Foundation presented a $4,000 grant for a new exhibit focusing
on camouflage and nature. Program offerings include an in person self-guided snowshoe hike the
evenings of January 30 and February 27. Last week the staff wrapped up a 2-year grant from MN
DNR removing buckthorn, performed controlled burns, and reseeded areas at West Moore Lake park
and the Springbrook Nature Center.
b. Parks Maintenance Update (Jeff Jensen)
Mr. Jensen reported that this has been an interesting winter for parks. The rinks were ready and then
it got warm and everything melted and are now they are freezing again. A lot of work has been put
into maintaining rinks, which are now ready, but the warming houses are closed, due to COVID
restrictions. He mentioned that timers were installed on the lights at Commons Park and will remain
on from 5-10 p.m. The sliding hill has been regraded, and the jumps were removed. Cross country
ski trails are now ready, and he is still working on securing a fireplace for the Springbrook Pavilion.
c. Other Updates (Debbie Dahl)
Ms. Dahl reported that sports and other recreation programs are slowly returning and will follow
COVID guidelines. Staff is working on summer line up which will start to be promoted in the next few
weeks. We expect COVID challenges will still be here so will operate on a limited basis with reduced
size groups, virtual programs, and offer self-guided programs. Summer hiring will begin as well.
The City is changing the agenda process with more information to follow.
Will meet with the City Manager this week to finalize the resident survey and questions that relate to
the parks master plan.
The joint City Council Park and Recreation Commission meeting will take place on Feb. 9. More
information will be provided to the group as details become available.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
a. In following up as a request from the last meeting, Ms. Dahl distributed a Parks CIP History and
Adopted Plan for 2021-2025 with a cover memo to be entered into the record. The information
does not include the Parks Master Plan. A MOTION was made to accept the Parks CIP History and
Adopted Plan for 2021-2025 documents into the record by Commissioner Kondrick and
SECONDED by Commissioner Larson. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.
Commissioner Borman asked for clarification on the amounts for 2021 if they were just
placeholders. Ms. Dahl replied that the amounts are estimates and will reviewed in more depth
ad be wrapped into the Parks Master Planning process.
b. 2021 Park & Recreation Commission revised meeting schedule was distributed. There were no
changes except for the Jan. 5, 2021 meeting. Commissioner Kondrick MOTIONED to approve the
revised schedule of the Park and Recreation Commission for the rest of the year. The motion was
SECONDED by Commissioner Larson. The MOTION PASSED unanimously.
6. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION made by Commissioner Larson to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner Kondrick. MOTION
PASSED and meeting adjourned at 8:43 p.m.
Next Meeting: Monday, Feb. 1, 2021 – 7 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Krista Peterson
Council/Commission Secretary