CC WS 2019 11 25CHANHASSEN CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION
NOVEMBER 25, 2019
Mayor Ryan called the work session to order at 5:00 p.m. The City Council met in
Executive Session until 5:30 to discuss the City Manager’s Performance Evaluation.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ryan, Councilwoman Tjornhom, Councilman
McDonald, Councilman Campion, and Councilwoman Coleman
STAFF PRESENT: Todd Gerhardt, Jake Foster, Kate Aanenson, Greg Sticha
PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Boettcher and
Meredith Petouvis
PUBLIC PRESENT: None.
DISCUSS FEASIBILITY STUDY AND NATURAL RESOURCE INVENTORY FOR
THE NEWLY ACQUIRED LAKE ANN PARK.
Todd Hoffman provided background information on the work that’s been done to date before
introducing Kevin Clarke, the consultant with Hoisington-Koegler Group Inc., working on this
project Kevin Clarke reviewed the results from the feasibility study addressing key principles
used in the study, a map outlining the Lake Ann Park components, the trail plan using paved
trails as well as natural surface trails, the parking plan at Greenwood Shores Park, management
and preservation of natural resources, signage and wayfinding, and estimated costs for 2020,
which are subject to change, for a total estimated overall cost of $4.2 million. Councilman
Campion asked about the cost for a bridge versus boardwalk construction. Todd Gerhardt asked
Kevin Clarke to comment on the status of possibly including a dog park and playground
equipment options with the plan. Councilwoman Tjornhom asked if off trail sites having
benches has been explored. Councilman McDonald asked if the trail plan will be accessible for
public safety. Mayor Ryan asked if public feedback has been addressed with this plan and next
steps to find possible funding sources. She explained that the council needs to have a discussion
on whether a referendum should include the $4.2 for Lake Ann Park expansion or $9 million to
incorporate improvements at other community parks after feedback is received from the citizen
survey.
KEY FINANCIAL STRATEGY: DISCUSSION OF UTILIY FUND FEES.
Greg Sticha provided background information on the study regarding utility fund fees and the
use of hook up fees. He discussed equity issues involved with providing subsidies with local
businesses. Councilman Campion asked about the use of extended repayment programs.
Councilwoman Tjornhom asked if Met Council has similar incentives programs. Greg Sticha
City Council Work Session – November 25, 2019
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continued discussing the deferred program and possible loss revenue before explaining staff is
recommending not setting an exception based policy. Todd Gerhardt discussed programs being
offered by Carver Count CDA and the State of Minnesota. Councilman McDonald and
Councilwoman Tjornhom concurred with staff’s recommendation. Mayor Ryan explained the
impetus for putting this item under key financial strategy. She noted that no action will be taken
in 2019 but her belief that it is something the council should continue to discuss early in 2020 to
continue exploring this option as a way to encourage development in the city.
Mayor Ryan adjourned the work session at 6:50 p.m.
Submitted by Todd Gerhardt
City Manager
Prepared by Nann Opheim