12-10-2024 PRC Agenda Packet
A.6:00 P.M. - CALL TO ORDER
B.ROLL CALL
C.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Commissioners may postpone or remove items at this time. Commissioners may discuss adding
items to a future agenda during Commissioner Member Presentations.
D.PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
E.VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
Commission Procedures allow for presentations from the audience at this time. If a motion is
required, the item will be forwarded to the next available agenda to allow for publication and
review prior to consideration.
F.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
F.1 Meeting Minutes: November 26, 2024
G.GENERAL BUSINESS
G.1 2024 Year in Review Presentation
H.REPORTS
H.1 Recreation Center Quarterly Update
H.2 Park Maintenance Quarterly Update
H.3 Senior Center Quarterly Update
H.4 Tree Lighting Ceremony Review
AGENDA
CHANHASSEN PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7700 MARKET BOULEVARD
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I.COMMISSION MEMBER COMMITTEE REPORTS
J.COMMISSION MEMBER PRESENTATIONS
K.ADMINISTRATIVE PACKET
L.ADJOURNMENT
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
December 10, 2024
Item Meeting Minutes: November 26, 2024
Item No:F.1
Agenda Section APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Prepared By Kate Vogt, Admin Support Specialist
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve the Park & Recreation Commission meeting minutes dated November 26, 2024.
SUMMARY
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the Park & Recreation Commission meeting minutes dated November 26, 2024.
ATTACHMENTS
Meeting Minutes: November 26, 2024
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CHANHASSEN PARK AND
RECREATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES
NOVEMBER 26, 2024
Chair Peck called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jim Peck, Chair; Rob Swanson; Scott Pharis; Kristin Fulkerson
(arrived at 6:10 p.m.); Michael Leisen; Sean Morgan; Aayan Shrestha, youth; and Clara
Christenson, youth.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Dan Eidsmo.
STAFF PRESENT: Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director; and Priya Wall, Recreation
Manager.
PUBLIC PRESENT: None.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Commissioner Pharis moved, Commissioner Swanson
seconded to approve the agenda as presented. All voted in favor and the motion carried
unanimously with a vote of 7 to 0.
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director, informed everyone that the Chanhassen Bluffs
Community Center referendum passed. He summarized the number of votes for the yes and the
number of votes for the no and discussed the next steps, including the design, architecture, and
construction manager.
Commissioner Fulkerson arrived at 6:10 p.m.
Chair Peck asked about the sale of the recreation center and where the funds would go. Mr.
Ruegemer answered that it would go towards the new community center. He did not know the
price the old recreation center would sell for.
Mr. Ruegemer said that the City would retain the outdoor components of the current recreation
center, including the sports fields. He commented that the school district might be interested in
the old recreation center property. He said construction would start in 2026, with a completion
date of 2027/28.
VISITOR PRESENTATIONS: None.
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Park and Recreation Commission Minutes – November 26, 2024
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APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Approve Park & Recreation Minutes dated October 22, 2024
Commissioner Swanson moved, Commissioner Pharis seconded to approve the minutes of
the Park and Recreation Commission meeting dated October 22, 2024 as presented. All
voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 8 to 0.
GENERAL BUSINESS: None.
REPORTS:
1. Halloween Party Evaluation
Priya Wall, Recreation Manager, summarized the events at the Halloween Party. She said that
fifteen local businesses participated in the trick-or-treating. They hosted carnival games,
hayrides, and crafts. She stated that the comedy show received constructive feedback. They plan
to change the live entertainment for next year. She explained that they had a title sponsor,
Southlake Agency, who donated funds for the event costs and hosted a photo booth, which was a
nice addition. Southlake Agency plans to participate as a title sponsor next year. She summarized
the survey responses about the event. She commented that the participation decreased from 2023.
Chair Peck asked about the decreased participation. Ms. Wall responded that the weather was
nice, which could have been a potential. It could also have been due to conflict with other
activities or previous crowds at the event.
Chair Peck asked if they received survey feedback from first-time attendees. Ms. Wall answered
that she did not know, but they could add that as a question in the future.
Commissioner Leisen asked for more information about the businesses that help. Ms. Wall
responded that there are many attendees, so the businesses get personal interactions and can get
their names out there.
Commissioner Pharis asked about businesses that participated each year. Ms. Wall answered that
all the businesses from last year came back.
2. Tree Lighting Ceremony & Holiday Events Preview
Priya Wall, Recreation Manager, commented that Santa’s Mailbox and Santa’s Workshop would
be set up between where the family rink and the hockey rink would be near City Hall between
November 28th and December 23rd. She said that the Gingerbread Decorating House Contest
Participation would be displayed at the tree lighting ceremony and could receive small prizes.
She summarized the Holiday Boutique that would occur on December 7th. The annual tree
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Park and Recreation Commission Minutes – November 26, 2024
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lighting will occur on December 7th at 5 p.m., with live reindeer and a special visit from Santa
Claus. She thanked the event sponsors for the tree-lighting ceremony. She thanked the park
maintenance department for hanging the many strings of holiday lights. She commented that the
Tour of Lights program would run from December 7th to December 31st. There were seven
homes registered currently. She stated that there was less participation from homes each year, so
they will analyze the event to determine if it is something that should be retired.
Commissioner Pharis asked about the best time to show up for the tree lighting ceremony to
volunteer. Ms. Wall responded that they needed volunteers from 4:40 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. Since the
holiday lights are in a new location, many switches would need to be plugged in a synchronized
manner to create the magical tree lighting moment. Ms. Wall wrote down the names of the
commissioners who volunteered to help with the event.
Jerry Ruegemer, Park and Recreation Director, stated that there was confusion about the event
happening, so he encouraged commissioners to spread the word about the event.
COMMISSION MEMBER COMMITTEE REPORTS: None.
COMMISSION MEMBER PRESENTATIONS:
Commissioner Fulkerson stated that the Environmental Commission was hosting a trivia night in
February. She thought it would be fun to create a Park and Recreation Commission team for the
event.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS: None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Commissioner Fulkerson moved, Commissioner Morgan seconded to adjourn the meeting.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 8 to 0. The Park and
Recreation Commission meeting was adjourned at 6:37 p.m.
Submitted by Jerry Ruegemer
Park and Recreation Director
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
December 10, 2024
Item 2024 Year in Review Presentation
Item No:G.1
Agenda Section GENERAL BUSINESS
Prepared By Priya Wall, Recreation Manager
SUGGESTED ACTION
SUMMARY
Staff will present the 2024 Parks & Recreation Year in Review Slideshow.
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
December 10, 2024
Item Recreation Center Quarterly Update
Item No:H.1
Agenda Section REPORTS
Prepared By Jodi Sarles, Recreation Center Manager
SUGGESTED ACTION
SUMMARY
December 4, 2024
REC CENTER EVENTS
The Artisan Fair was held on November 2 in the gymnasium. There were forty-two vendors and over
600 people attended the fair. Donations for the PROP Food Shelf were collected, $83.00 cash and 362
lbs. non-perishable food donations at the event.
Holiday Boutique is December 7. Forty-one tables registered to take part in this event. Food and cash
donations will be collected for Bountiful Basket Food Shelf.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Dance for Fun
Winter session began December 2. Twenty classes were in session with 138 participants. The Rec
Center will host a Winter Showcase on January 25 to give families a sneak peek of what the dancers
have been working on.
Go Gymnastics
This is a mobile gymnastics program offered for children 18 months-7 years old. This popular program
receives strong evaluations and is a favorite for kids. In 2024, 207 children participated in these
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sessions.
Recreation Center Sports
Shannon Brault has accepted the position of Rec Center Sports Coordinator. Shannon serves as an
Assistant Cross Country Ski Coach and has previous experience with Richfield Parks & Recreation.
Shannon has been a great addition to the team.
Small Fry Sports (ages 3-4) – Three hundred forty- five children have participated in sessions of
sports this year.
Lil’ Star Sports (ages 5-6) –Two hundred twelve children have participated in sessions of sports this
year. Upcoming sessions include Floor hockey, soccer, and basketball for both programs.
Adult Fitness
The Recreation Center offers a variety of fitness classes on a registration basis as well as a flexible
drop-in option. Classes include Fit for Life, Tai Chi, Zumba, Line Dancing, Fusion, Gentle Flow Yoga,
Vinyasa Yoga, and Mat Pilates.
Pickleball
This sport continues to grow in popularity. Our pickleball lessons have introduced the game to 172 new
players this year and 63 players registered to advance their skills. With the chilly weather, many people
are seeking indoor play options. We offer open pickleball, and beginner pickleball, and have Tuesday
and Thursday morning private court reservation times.
REC CENTER PUNCH CARD SALE
The annual December Punch Card Sale is underway. Buy a 40-punch card and receive a 10-punch card
free, this is a $35 value.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Royal Ball - Friday, January 31, 5:30-7:30 pm at the Lions Park Pavilion in Victoria. Anna and Elsa
have cordially requested your attendance at a Royal Ball where you will have an enchanted evening of
fun including crafts, a photo booth, food, music, and storytelling.
Dance for Winter Showcase - Saturday, January 25 in the Recreation Center Gymnasium.
Fit for Life Free Trial Class – Thursday, January 9, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Super Hero Party – Friday, March 7, 5:30-7 pm at Victoria Recreation Center. Come dressed as your
favorite superhero. There will be bounce houses, an inflatable obstacle course, and a dance party!
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
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RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
2024 Survey
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Chanhassen Recreation Center Rental Evaluation
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Do you have any comments about the Chanhassen Recreation Center staƯ?
Your staƯ is always very accommodating and easy to work with!
They are all so nice and helpful
Super helpful and made everything easier on a stressful day. Thank you!!!
They have set up the rooms like we have asked which has been wonderful. Makes our event go very
smoothly and eveyone is extremely happy.
Julie and Jodie are always amazing!!
Our event has happened yet. So not able to comment on those questions
The young man working the counter when we arrived was very helpful and inviting! The man who
was there when we left was not and made us feel unwelcome.
only that in the last reservation they accidentally put us in the smaller conference room, but were
able to correct at the time of our event. We very much appreciate this space and the opportunity to
use it.
Very kind, considerate and respectful
The staƯ was very friendly and helpful. They let a room full of 9 year old boys be crazy boys!
Very helpful and super friendly
AƯordable.
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Do you have any other comments, concerns or compliments you would like to share with us?
Please insert below or contact the Recreation Center Manager at 952-227-1401.
Really like working with Chanhassen Rec Center!!
Hopefully the new recreation center will still be aƯordable for residents
Everyone was super helpful and it was nice to have an aƯordable space nearby to host my son's
birthday party. Thank you!
Excellent facility
Suggest any papers from a prior event be removed - there were some flyers from a prior event I
cleared away.
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
December 10, 2024
Item Senior Center Quarterly Update
Item No:H.3
Agenda Section REPORTS
Prepared By Mary Blazanin, Senior Center Coordinator
SUGGESTED ACTION
SUMMARY
The Senior Center worked around a busy election season to offer many programs and social
opportunities. In summary, the Center:
1. Created 15 programs, trips, and classes to engage 735 patrons.
2. Served 141 clients in eight different Health and Wellness programs.
3. Hosted nine weekly games and gathered groups averaging 161 individuals, with a cumulative
participation rate for October-December of 483 patrons.
We continue to work with local, state, and county organizations to provide relevant programming and
utilize their available resources. The Senior Center secured several sponsorships and memorial
donations this quarter, partnering with many local businesses to make our programs more affordable.
Scholarships created from memorial donations allow us to help a few patrons on fixed incomes
participate in activities they can’t otherwise afford.
Commissioners from the Chanhassen Commission on Aging have volunteered their time to help serve at
events and programs. They continue to meet as an advisory council to our city leaders in creating a
thriving community for life. We have eight Commissioners engaged in active older adult initiatives,
including Bridging Students and Seniors, Outreach and Communications, Dementia Awareness,
Affordable Housing, and Carver County age well initiatives. The Commission is also engaged in
brainstorming discussions with the Senior Center and our city's communications team on a possible
name change for the new Senior Center when it opens in 2025. Programs from the 4th Quarter of 2024
include,
Day Trips, in partnership with Chaska Lodge, Total Participation: 143
• Barn Quilts of Carver County
• White Christmas, Chanhassen Dinner Theater
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• I Am Betty, MN History Theater
Special Events. Total participants to date, 406 (includes estimated 155 for upcoming Holiday
Celebration and Holiday Sing-Along)
• Octoberfest Luncheon and Jolly Huntsman Polka Band
• Speaker, David Jones: The History of the American Flag
• Veterans and Friends Pancake Breakfast sponsored by Chanhassen American Legion and American
Legion Auxiliary
• Parfaits and Sonatas with DasTrio classical performers, sponsored by Riley Crossing
• Annual Holiday Celebration, sponsored by Nicolet Bank and Landmark Tours
• Holiday Cookies and Sing Along with Chan-o-laires, sponsored by Elysian Homes
Classes and Educational Sessions. Total Participation, 186
• Sept & Nov, 55+ Alive Defensive Driving Classes
• Medicare 101 with Jennifer Balk, LLC
• Coffee with the Cops, Jake Hodge from Carver County Sherriff's Dept
• Age Well at Home – Safety Tips, presented by Senior Helpers
• Landmark Tours Travel Show
• Staying Young at Heart, with speaker & author Debbie Johnson
Health and Wellness Resources. Client’s served, 141
• Monthly Footcare Clinics
• Leaf Raking assistance for seniors, Chanhassen Rotary, October 26
• Tech Help for Seniors, Senior Community Services.
• Cub Pharmacy Flu and Covid Vaccination Clinic, September
• Free Medicare Insurance Counseling by Metro Area Agency on Aging – Trellis
• November Alzheimer’s Awareness Resource Table, sponsored by the Chanhassen Commission on
Aging and hosted by The Chanhassen Library
• Vision Loss Support Group and Caregiver Support Group
• Age Well Monthly Discussion Group with University of Minnesota medical students
Ongoing Weekly Groups and Gatherings, average weekly participation, 161
Party Bridge, Mah Jongg, Woodcarving, Bingo, Dominoes, Chan-o-laires, Cribbage, 500 Cards, Chair
Yoga
We are looking forward to planning another year of great programs for 2025!
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
55 Holiday Celebration flyer 2024
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Dec. 13 11:30-1:30 p.m. $15
A delicious buffet of seasonal ham, meatballs, and
sides, followed by Holiday Songs & Other Favorites
with musicians Chuck & Jason Thiel.
Register at chanhassenMN.gov or call 952-227-1400
55+ HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
Festive, Fancy & Fun
Sponsored by Nicolet Bank & Landmark Tours
at the Chanhassen Recreation Center
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Park & Recreation Commission Item
December 10, 2024
Item Tree Lighting Ceremony Review
Item No:H.4
Agenda Section REPORTS
Prepared By Priya Wall, Recreation Manager
SUGGESTED ACTION
SUMMARY
Staff will provide a review and evaluation of the 2024 Tree Lighting Ceremony.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Saturday, December 7 from 5-6 p.m. at City Center
Park, on the athletic field north of City Hall. Mayor Elise Ryan and Councilmembers will flip the
ceremonial switch, illuminating City Center Park. December 7 shows a high temperature of 39 degrees,
and staff expect a turnout of approximately 500 people. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is a popular
holiday celebration that many people enjoy each year.
BACKGROUND
DISCUSSION
Refreshments
Local community groups BuyChanhassen and Jingle Mingle will coordinate food and beverage
donations from the local business community. Thank you to Cub Foods and Lunds & Byerlys
Chanhassen for donating cookies, coffee, and hot cocoa for the event!
S'mores
The SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce will coordinate and provide s'mores for attendees to roast
over small bonfires. This is always a very popular aspect of the tree lighting ceremony.
Bonfires
The Park Maintenance staff set up warm bonfires for all to enjoy. The fires are an excellent component
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of the event and provide an option for attendees to warm up.
Santa Claus
The Mustard Seed Landscaping and Garden Center will arrange for a special visit by Santa Claus. Santa
will appear out of his workshop, which was built by the Park Maintenance department. He will visit
with the crowd, pass out candy canes, and pose for photos.
Live Reindeer
Two live reindeer from Kendallville Farms in Excelsior will make their appearance at the Tree
Lighting. There will be a photo station for attendees to visit the reindeer and get family photos. Each
year, many families enjoy the live reindeer at the event.
Carolers
Thank you to Living Christ Lutheran Church in Chanhassen for providing a group of 20 carolers for the
tree lighting.
Bountiful Basket Food Shelf Donation Trolley
SouthWest Transit will bring its festive trolley to the event, which will serve as a station for Bountiful
Basket Food Shelf donations. Thank you to SouthWest Transit for coordinating these donations.
Tour of Lights
Eleven homes registered for this year's Tour of Lights. The interactive map will be live on the City
website beginning December 7, allowing residents to tour the light displays on their schedule
throughout the holiday season.
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS
Expense Report
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REVENUE
Total $0.00
EXPENDITURES
101-1615-4130 (Budget: $100.00)
Candy Canes & Tablecloths $52.56
Total $52.56
101-1615-4345 (Budget: $1,200.00)
Live Reindeer $1,800.00
Total $1,800.00
101-1600-4300 (Budget: $350.00)
Stage platform $0.00
Total $0.00
101-1600-4340 (Budget: $400.00)
Sponsored Meta ads $20.00
Total $20.00
TOTAL REVENUE: $0.00 (Target: $0.00)
TOTAL EXPENSES: $1,872.56 (Budget: $2,050)
BALANCE: -$1,872.56 (Target balance: -$2,050)
2024 Treelighting Ceremony
Expense Report
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