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Correspondence SectionAdministrative Section PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION 1998 GOALS · Manage 1997 Park & Open Space and Trail Projects · Pursue Art & Theatre Programming Install Historical Street Markers Focus on High School Programs (In response to the opinion of high schoolers that the reason drug and alcohol use is as prevalent as it is, is due to a lack of things to do) Construct a BMX Trail Continue to Commit Resources to the Bluff Creek Greenway · Update the Five Year Park Acquisition and Develop Capital Improvement Program · Explore Options for the Old Ready Mix & Pauly's Sites · Identify and Explore Community Partnerships e.g. Lifetime Fitness, Minnesota Orchestra, Golf Course RECEIVE9 ~AR 1 1 1998 CITY OF CHANHASSEN 9271 Kiowa Trail Chanhassen Mn 55317 March 9, 1998 Todd Hoffman 690 Coulter Drive P.O. Box 147 Chanhassen, MN 55317 Dear Todd, I am writing and asking you to pass on this thought on the dcvelopmcnt of Bandimere Park to the appropriate parties. I 'know that the budget is tight, and there arc many competing and worthy possibilities for the "amenities". It appears that the tennis court is at risk for being sacrificed. As you know we are heavily in favor of the developments of the various soccer and ball ficlds in thc park, even though we will not have anyone still in the program by the time they are erected. These developments appropriately serve large groups of people at a time. For a family looking to participate in a sport, though, these fields don't meet their needs. A husband/wife, father/daughter tennis game can build family relations, and provides a healthy recreation for those of us too old to play team sports. If there is anything we can do to encourage the instillation of thc tennis court please let us 'know. We would even be willing to make a sizable contribution towards the park if the courts go in. Thanks for your consideration, Barry and Hallie Bershow (90 Ci0, Cemer Drive. PO ]~ox' 147 Ch,od;,~_~xe,. 3li,,e;ot,~ 55317 Phoebe 612.93Z 1.000 ~;W,ee;%~ L6 612937.9152 h~[ic 'q~'5 f')x 612 934.252~ March 12, 1998 Barry and Hallie Bershow 9271 Kiowa Trail Chanhassen, MN 55317 Dear Barry and Hallie: Thank you for your letter of March 9 concerning Bandimere Park. I understand and agree with the message you presented. Unfortunately, the project budget is well short of providing the necessary funds to construct the tennis court(s). The attached memorandum portrays this in some detail. The Park and Recreation Commission will work to construct the "missing" amenities over the years, but I cannot predict which additions will come first. Your offer to contribute to the courts is very generous, and certainly could play a part in future decisions over priorities. Please contact me at any time with your thoughts. Sincerely, Todd Hoffman Park and Recreation Director TH:ns c: Park and Recreation Commission enclosure g:\park\th\Bershow.ltr The Oty q/'Cha.hassen. A pw~'i.~, o...m.in, with c/c,w :~d.'c,', mr, d&, sd, ools. ,: c/,,m./.? dow.tow., February 5, 1998 CC Hockey Association c/o J. Liddell Chaska Peewee Commissioner 2550 Bridle Creek Trail Chanhassen, MN 55317 FEB I 8 1998 CH,--,,',, ,/',~N CITYOF ' ' ''~ ~ Dear Jim: The recent discussions on allocation of ice at this month's board meeting has raised concern to a number of hockey families in this Association. As the second sheet of ice becomes available to our families, it is important that the Association allocate the total ice time among all the teams in a manner that will benefit all members of the association. While we recognize that the additional fees paid by the A and B teams would bring these teams proportionately more ice time, the C teams should also be benefiting substantially. Comments have been circulating that state the C teams to be recreational skaters only. This is an inappropriate position for board members to have. As can be noted by the standings of the Association's two Peewee C teams, the players have been very competitive. So much so, that perhaps the decision to not have B1 and B2 teams should be reconsidered. If there are some families in the Association that really do prefer recreational hockey, that can be addressed at the time of registration by having the family indicate if they are registering for competitive or recreational hockey. The responses to this question will guide the Association in forming a recreational team if necessary. Without that type of response, it would behove the Board to assume that the majority of players believe (and demonstrate earnestly) that they want to play competitively. If our mission as an association is to develop all of our children while they are having fun with this sport. Also, in allocating ice time to teams, a sheet of shared ice for one hour should not be attributed to a team as an hour of ice time. It would be clear to all of our families, that from Squirt level on, a player benefits differently from an hour of skating a full sheet than a half sheet. In a time when ice is not available, shared ice is better than no ice. However, when we come to a time when we are looking at how to allocate the available ice from the new arena, given our current registration levels, one should not expect to plan for shared ice time. Nor should we be looking at having to travel to any other arena in order to have practice time. If shared ice time, traveling to other arenas to practice, and a disproportionate allocation of ice continues, one would have to question why we would be supporting the cost of a new arena. The materials asking for our financial support did emphasize how our children were going to benefit. We are asking for assurance that this benefit will show itse'f, in one way, through fair balance in ice allocation. We also want to give recognition that allocation of ice time is challenging. As such, perhaps representation from the families that are concerned, whether they are with children on A, B or C teams, should be included in the Associations actions. I am sure we could provide names of individuals who would be willing to work with the association to reach a fair outcome. We also believe our respective cities should be aware and give credence to our concerns and render support for our request. Sincerely, / /.- " .;-'. SignaTure?Address/Phone Number A Concerned Hockey Parent Z.:"..' ~' ;... "/ , ' : ' cc: City of Chaska City of Chanhassen,,,' City of Victoria CCHA News Letter Election of Board Members Elections of your 1998/1999 CCHA Board will be held at the May 4"', 1998 Board Meeting. Listed below you will find the open positions. If you would like to volunteer for one of those position, please plan to attend the April 6"' Board Meeting or contact a CCHA Board members. Nominations for the open positions will be accepted at the meeting. Elections will be held at the May 4"' meeting for these positions. It is suggested that each nominees write a one page letter to the association regarding the position. The letter will then be published in the April 1998 CCHA Newsletter. All letters are due by April 15 to insure publication. Letters may be mailed to the CCHA PO Box' or E-Mailed to bmcgovern@emersonemc.com. Two Year Positions: Secretary Equipment Manager Toumament Director Pee Wee Commissioner VP Business Ice Coordinator Squirt Commissioner Bantam Commissioner One Year Positions: Mini Mite Coordinator (1 year) Mite Coordinator (1 Year) ,4 special thanks to those who took the time and served in these positions in the last term. It takes all of us to make this organization operate so that the kids within the program have the opportunity to skate and have fun. Open Board Position - District 6 Rep. We are currently looking for a volunteer to take over the position of our District 6 Representative. Rod Kern resigning this position at the March Board Meeting. Rod had currently held 2 positions at the District 6 level. In May Rod will become the VP of District 6. The time commitment of this position and family do not allow for much free time. If you are interested in this position, please plan on attending the April 6' Board Meeting. We are looking at filling this position as soon as possible. Rod has offered to help the individual get up to speed with District 6 Rep duties, but we need a volunteer now. This position is a one year position. BEST WISHES in your new position Rod! Board Meeting Minutes Minutes from the CCHA Board Meetings are available for viewing in the concession area at the Ice Arena. The binder can be found below the cash register. Coaches Evaluation Forms If you have not yet completed your Coaches Evaluation, please do so as soon as possible. After you have completed the Evaluation form, please mail it to our P.O. Box. Additional form can be found at the arena. Please take the time to complete and Mail the Evaluation form. Your feedback and input is greatly appreciated. Girls Hockey The final allocation of ice hours has now been given to the girls instructional program. Any girl that is registered with the youth program is also welcome to skate at these times. They are as follows: March 18 & 25 - 4:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. April 1, 8, 15 - 4:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. We have received many comments, compliments and suggestions this year for our girls program. As we develop next year's program the goal is to have a competitive Squid team and an instructional program. All comments and suggestions are welcome as we continue to develop this new program. Please contact Claire Schnurr at 448-2739 with any comments or suggestions that you would like to share. As many of you may or may not know, the girls program this year received a tremendous amount of support, help, and time from the girls varsity program and the players. We greatly appreciate the time commitment and support contributed by many of the varsity players and their coaches to our developing program. They had a great season for their first year and I look forward to seeing the program continue to grow and improve. MANY THANKS!l!!!!!!!! Equipment Check-in Equipment check-in is scheduled at the CCC THIS FRIDAY March 20'h, at 7:30 PM. It is important that the goalie equipment be checked for needed repairs. This check-in also includes coaches equipment. Equipment may also be checked in at the March coaches meeting. Note: Mite equipment will be checked in at a later date. Equipment may also be checked out at the CCC on March 21st at the CCC for spring and summer leagues. If you have any questions, please contact Lynn Clements @. 949-2472 Sponsor: The City of Chaska in cooperation with the Coaches of the CCHA are sponsoring the Summer Rink Rat Program at the CCC. Features of this Program: Refs. to keep the game under control. No Checking, skating skills are being promoted Focus is on having fun!!!! Keeps those skating legs in shape. Improve your skating skills Registration: Registration information will be included in nexl months news letter or can be forms at the Main Desk of the CCC. When: Sunday evening, starting around July 12th through August 30th 1998. Times: One hour per week, Sunday evening. ' '_ooking for Volunteers 1'he Chaska/ChanhassenNictoria Arena Campaign is looking for a few more volunteers to help with phone calling and collection of pledges. If you are interested please call Randy Mueller at 443-4004. Thank you for your support.t// PeeWee C Purple Take 2"" at District 6 Playoffs I was asked to share a few of my thoughts about the 1997- 1998 PeeWee C Purple Team by the CCHA PeeWee Commissioner. I am honored to share some of my thoughts regarding this team with the CCHA. From the beginning of the season, the coaches asked this team to give 100% at practices, scrimmages, games, tournaments, and finally in District 6 Play-offs. I believe this team did all that they could to deliver on what the coaches requested of them. Their season ended this past weekend with a final record of 24 8 1 which included co-runner-up honors dudng the regular Distdct 6 season (12 3 1) and a second place finish at the District 6 playoffs. Head coach Mike Strunk along with assistant coaches Peter Mitchell and Lynn Clements did a great job working with each individual on the team. The coach's worked hard at recognizing the individual talents of each player and did their best at working on player development, Each player was encouraged by the coaches to play at his maximum ability while also ensuring each player was having fun. All the players on the team contributed to this successful season. Each player had a role on this team and they respected outstanding individual contributions, but it was more evident that our players' placed a greater emphasis on solid team play. play during season the players selected a Captain and Co-Captains. Selected as the team Captain was Alan Mueller, with Co-Captain honors going to Zach Strank and Mike Clements. Great pride was taken by these three athletes to lead their young team in unity and sportsmanship. The PeeWee C Purple Team is made up of three defensive lines that include; Joey Thuening, John Lundquist, Peter Mitchell, Joe Shafranski, Brennan Bushard, Jeff Johnson. Our net was protected by goalies Jake Strunk and Kyle Henning. Our forward lines included; Mike Clements, Derek LeClair, Alan Mueller, Evan Malone, Zach Strunk, Matt Thompson, Seth Eggert, Aaron Sether, and Seth Evans. Recognition must also go to the parents of this team. Thanks for a fun season! Their dedication to ensure their sons were at practices, games, and tournaments was appreciated by the Coaches (and Team Manager). This group of parents supported the purchase of additional ice hours for practices and tournaments for our team. The abundance of moral supped from these parents was evident. I know the players and coaches appreciated this support. Our parents also comprised a cheering section that was the best! If you attended any of the games, you know about their cheedng chants and cheering tunnels. The memodes from this season will be long remembered by ever7 one of these 17 athletes and their families. Finally, a special thanks to the parents and athletes from the other PeeWee teams and CCHA Board Members who attended the Distdct 6 playoffs to cheer for our team. Thanks for your support. What encouragement from the stands! THANKS AGAIN FOR A GREAT SEASON/ - Linda Mueller, Team Manager, PeeWee C Purple Target Group CCHNFigure Skating Parents) Ice Arena Updates Ice Arena Fund-Raising Campaign Score Sheet (pledges to date 2/16/98) . Campaign Goal * Pledges to Date Delta % of Goal Status $ 70,000 $ 85,670 $ 15,670 122% Thanks to the CCHA Club Parents! Community Service $ 60,000 $ 43,000 Organizations $ (17,000) 72% Service Club campaign underway Corporate/Business $ 120,000 $ 47,675 $ (72,325) 40% Follow-up calls and personal visits required Other ** $ 55,000 $ 34,000 . $ (21,000) 62% $30,000 from Victoria. ~Totals $ 305,000 $ 210,345 $ (94,655) 69% Keep up the good workl Feasibility Study Goal: $250,000. Consulting firm fees = $50,000 (plus expenses estimated at approximately $5K). Total: $305,000 Goal. ** Other includes High School Parents, Friends of the Hockey Association, Cities, Gifts in Kind (score board, ice resurfacer, lights, etc.) etc.) NHL HOCKEY COMES TO CHASKA Plarch 21'; 2:00 PM Chaska CommuniW Center NHL Players V.S. CCHA Coaches Alumni STARS OF THE NHL Reed Larson - Best Slapshot in NHL for over 10 years Tom Younghans & Tim Young - 1981 Stanley Cup Finals Bruce McIntosh Dave Richter Donnie Beaupre Neil Broten and MORE! Tickets at the door: Family Pass *Adult Youth 12 and under $10.00 $5.00 $2.50 *Save $1.00 per adult ticket when you purchase your tickets in advance from CCHA Board Members Save SSS& Sponsored by: Chaska Community Center 1997/1998 CCHA Board Members: Position Name Position Name President: Jim Leone VP of Business: Earl Schaub ,...,VP of Competition: Steve Olinger Treasurer: Jim Roeder ecretary: Bryan McGovern District 6 Representative: Rod Kern Equipment Manager: Lynn Clements Ice Coordinator: Tom Redman Concession Stand Coordinator: Susie Blake Tournament Director: Paul Berens 97/98 Bantam Commissioner: 97/98 Pee Wee Commissioner: 97/98 Squirt Commissioner: 97/98 Mite Commissioner: 97/98 Mini Mite Commissioner: Layton Zellman Jim Liddell Tom Stumpf Mark Giordano Beverly Erickson & Cindy Berens Other Numbers: CCHA Merchandise: Chaska Community Center: Gold Medal Sports 934-3300 448-5633 (Main Desk) Girls Coordinator Dir. of Communications Claire Schnurr Randy Mueller City of Chanhassen Todd Hoffman 690 Coulter Drive Chanhassen, Mn. 55317 RECEi~E~ ~^1~ ]. 7 '~998 CiTY OF CHAN~ASSEN CITYOF CHANHASSEN 6~0 CO~ Cc,tot Drlre, PO Box i ~7 Pho,e 612.~32 I~00 &',e~I ~.~' 612.9325739 ~,gi,eeri,g ~.x' 612.9329152 P~hSc S~'O, L~x 612. 934. 2524 March 3, 1998 Mr. Robert C. Heinen 1544 Roundhouse Circle Shakopee, MN 55379 Re: Park Laborer/Light Equipment Operator Dear Mr. Heinen: Congratulations! I am pleased to offer you the position of Park Laborer/Light Equipment Operator with the City of Chanhassen's Park Maintenance Department. All of the applicants interviewed for this position were highly qualified; however, you were selected as the top candidate. The Park Laborer/Light Equipment Operator position is classified as a Salary Grade 3 position in the City's Pay Compensation Plan. Your starting salary will be $29,120 per year which corresponds to an hourly rate of $14.00. Pay periods are bi-weekly. This position is considered non-exempt and, as such, overtime is compensated in accordance with the City's Personnel Policy for hours worked over and above a normal 40-hour work week. Vacation and sick time accrual and paid holiday benefits are also governed by the City's Personnel Policy. All new hires for the City are required to successfully complete a 6-month probationary period. Your performance and appropriate salary increases will be reviewed at the completion of the probationary period in early October 1998. As agreed, your start date will be Monday, March 23, 1998. Please report to Park Superintendent Dale Gregory at the Public Works Shop located at 1591 Park Road (intersection of Park Road and Audubon Road) on that date at 7:30 a.m. Please complete the attached employment and background check forms and bring them with you on your first day. If you have questions in the meantime, either contact me at 937-1900, ext. 119 or Park Superintendent Dale Gregory at 474-4127. I am sure you will find the Park Department staff to be a hard working and friendly group. CITYOF 690 CiO' (~?,t~'r DJ'il'c. PO Box I47 C/~,m/,,~sse,. 3 lt',,e,'ot(~ 553i 7 lV,o ,~' 612 9321900 (;~',c~d hm 612. 932 5.739 35,i,~'~'~i,~ ~;m 612 93Z 9152 Pt~b~:c ~, ~30' ['~ ~-~' 6 ] 2. 9, ~ 4'. 2524 March 3, 1998 Mr. Jerry Chalupsky 5485 Carmel Lane Carver, MN 55315 Re: Park Laborer/Light Equipment Operator Dear Mr. Chalupsky: Congratulations! I am pleased to offer you the position of Park Laborer/Light Equipment Operator with the City of Chanhassen's Park Maintenance Department. All of the applicants interviewed for this position were highly qualified; however, you were selected as the top candidate. The Park Laborer/Light Equipment Operator position is classified as a Salary Grade 3 position in the City's Pay Compensation Plan. Your starting salary will be $29,120 per year which corresponds to an hourly rate of $14.00. Pay periods are bi~weekly. This position is considered non-exempt and, as such, overtime is compensated in accordance with the City's Personnel Policy for hours worked over and above a normal 40-hour work week. Vacation and sick time accrual and paid holiday benefits are also governed by the City's Personnel Policy. All new hires for the City are required to successfully complete a 6-month probationary period. Your performance and appropriate salary increases will be reviewed at the completion of the probationary period in early October 1998. As agreed, your start date will be Monday, March 23, 1998. Please report to Park Superintendent Dale Gregory at the Public Works Shop located at 1591 Park Road (intersection of Park Road and Audubon Road) on that date at 7:30 a.m. Please complete the attached employment and background check forms and bring them with you on your first day. If you have questions in the meantime, either contact me at 937-1900, ext. 119 or Park Superintendent Dale Gregory at 474-4127. I am sure you will find the Park Department staff to be a hard working and friendly group. TO: CHANHASSEN CITY COUNCIL NANCY MANCINO STEVE BERQUIST MARK ENGEL MIKE MASON MARK SENN FROM: LINDA JANSEN DATE: MARCH 10, 1998 SUBJECT: COULTER BOULEVARD I would first like to thank each of you for speaking with me individually about the Coulter Extension Project and for allowiug me to take some of your time in Monday night's Council Meeting in the tidied attempt to persuade you to reopen this issue. As you evaluate the "message you are sending" relating to the North Highway 101 Trail, I respectfully suggest that you do the same when faced with decisions affecting our Lands and Open Spaces. The $3.7 million provided by the referendum for the purchase of land only scratches the surface of property acquisitions that would protect this city's natural resources for the com~nunity. You have now proposed moving dollars froln the land acquisition funds to cover a projected budget over run on the trails project, rather then using the existing parks and trails reserve money as suggested by the Parks Department. The justification being to "send a message" on the North HxE; 101 trail, which for very legitimate reasons, was excluded from this referendum. Message To the Citizens of Chanhassen: "We, the members of the city council, will not support the park, trail and open space referendum beyond what you have approved in funding for the project, even though the budget was only an estimate and may fall short of funding the projects that you have approved In spite of tile fact that the dollars exist in tile parks and trails reserve fund. Tile Council has its oxvn agenda." One council member noted that "the O'Shaughnessy property is not a part of tile referendum". Technically this is correct. However, this statement is one example of statements and actions by this council that lead me to question the "message" you are sending as it applies to the council's land ethics. Your actions suggest that you feel no obligation to apply our community's values to a piece of property unless the cmnmunity pays for the land. Protecting the O'Shaughnessy property would increase the amount of valuable "Open Spaces" in total, with no additional cost to the community. Is there not a valuable ~nessage to the community in working towards the same end goals? The current proposal to continue with the plans to put Coulter Boulevard through this area, sends a message contrary to the one made by the community with our passage of the referendum. The citizens of this community desire and are paying for the protection of land. The city council is putting a Boulevard through a land gift that is home to a wealth of natural resources and habitats that we can not begin to match or create in other areas of the community. All decisions affecting a wetland or a stand of old growth, need to be viewed and treated with the Values encompassed in the parks referendum. This property ~as a girl to the city -- to the people of this community. It should be preserved for the very reason that it is not "developable", because of the wetland habitat and richness of the resources it provides us. I mean no disrespect when I say that a bunch of MNDOT statistics have out weighed the Values of the community in this decision making process. With the passage of the parks, trails and open space referendum the majority of the members of this community authorized you to purchase, thus preserve, our natural resources. Speaking for ~nyself, I assumed that when faced with a situation like this piece of property the council would protect it for the community, going so far as to reevaluate previous decisions and adjusting those not in line with the values substantiated by the referendum. In this case, resulting in the cancellation of a portion of the planne~l,~,,~ . frontage road in order to preserve park land, withstanding pressures from MNDOT or the otherwise. CiTY OF CH,qNHitSSF_N It seems Chanhassen needs a general policy that encompasses the community values that supported the referendum, so that the council has the strength of the community's convictions to support othenvise more difficult to substantiate decisions. Until the voters spoke on this referendum there may have been some room for argmnent that convenience should take priority over protecting park land, today you have indisputable evidence to support what this colnmunity considers to be a priority: Protecting the natural resources that have drawn us to live in Chanhassen. However, with MNDOT projecting the traffic congestion in this area with what were obviously impressive statistics, it had to have left you in the position of feeling as if the only rational decision you could make was to construct this road. Where are the statistics to support voting against it? They do not exist in the form given by MNDOT, but justification does exist. I quote from Urban Wildlife Habitats, Lowell W. Adams: A Conscnration Ethic Noting tile values of urban landscapes, many of which are difficult if not impossible to define cconomically, I believe we need to develop a strong conservation land ethic, first advocated by Aldo Leopold over 40 years ago. Leopold viewed land broadly as encompassing soil, water, plants, and animals, and pointed ont: A land elhic of course cannot prevent tile alteration, management, and nsc of these "resources," but it does affirm their right to continued existence, and, at least in spots, their continued existence in a natural state. In short, a land ethic changes the role ofttomo Sapiens from conqueror of tile land-conmmnity to plain member and citizen of it. It i~nplies respect for his fellow-members, and also respect for the community as such. Leopold felt that a major reason for tile lack of a land ethic was that property was viewed only in economic terms, entailing prMleges but not obligations. '~Obligations have no meaning without conscience, and the problem we face is the extension of the social conscience from people to land." To develop sncba land ethic, we must think in terms of what is ethically and ecologically fight as well as in terms of what is of ilnmediate economic value. You will find the attached article that ran in the Burm¥ille This Week of interest. Worth noting is the statement that "Dakota County has only 2 percent of its original habitat". Articles attached from National ll'ihtlife Alagazine suggest that "Preserving green spaces, landscaping with native plants and leaving streamsides and wetlands undisturbed are just a few of the ways local governments can make communities more friendly to wildlife while enhancing the quality of life for people." And ~'Newly constructed wetlands don't measure up to their natural counterparts." There is no recovering this natural habitat once it is destroyed. Make no mistake, an industrial boulevard cutting through a natural wildlife habitat as rich as this one will destroy it. The creatures that inhabit this area will continue to use both sides of the property. Ground based creatures will be crushed and eventually entirely eliminated, those that cau fly away will not return. For exmnple, this area was holne to a pair of nesting Great Homed Owls that have not been seen for approximately three weeks. Already victims of the current construction on the sewer and utilities? Maybe? Old Growth around this parcel has already been eliminated, preserving what remains is already a compromise, but it at least maintains some of tile essential habitat. My intention is not to make light of the actions that have been taken to move conservation fonvard in this community, nor to suggest that you take that responsibility lightly. Chanhassen has a WEALTH of resources and wildlife worth preserving. The property affected by the Coulter Extension might seem like a small part of an otherwise big picture, but in this case it is a key part due to its location within the city, and the nature of what is located inside of its boundaries. To avoid being redundant, I ask that you thimk again about what I said about the children, the message that you are sending on their safety and the loss of the educational opportunity that could otherwise be provided for them on this parkland that is in their backryards. The Industrial Park can exist without Coulter (as noled by the developer), The Park Land will cease to exist with the intrusion of the Industrial Traffic. Why not use it as a buffer between the Industrial Park and the Residential Community and allow them to jointly enjoy a parkland rich in benefits for them both. as well as for the rest of the community? Why not explore further the other options for easing traffic congestion? Why not decide that this land gift is worth respecting instead of destroying what makes it so special and desirable? MNDOT has not yet decided how to handle all of the intersections involved along Hx~), 5. What if this is expendable? Once this property is altered, what is lost can not be replaced. Does that not ~nake waiting and living without the extension worthwhile for the community? C~ Todd Hoffman, Park & Recreation Director Jan Lash, Park & Recreation Commission Alison Blackowiak, Park, Trail and Open Space Taskforce Attachments Affiliate Advises Local Governments On Aiding Wildlife I'reserving green spaces, land- SCalfing v,,itb native plants and leaving streamsides and wet- hinds undisturbed are just a I'cxv o1' tl~e ways local govern- meals can alike con/nmnities more friendly to wikllife while enhancing the quality of life for people. That's the message of a new resource guide. Working Jbr Wildlife: Ways Cities & Counties Can tlelp I~qhllife, published by the Soulh Car- olina Wildlife Federation, one of NWF's affiliates. "This is an untapped area of hind managcmcnl and one that can have a big impact on wildlife." says Chris Thomp- son, author of the guide and chairman of tiao land-use committee of the South Car- olina Wildlife Federation. The guide includes specific examples of steps taken by communities ill South Caroli- na and other stales, as well as extensive rcferclqces for addi- tional information. For a free copy of thc guide, write the South Caroli- na Wilcllife Federation, 715 Wooch'uw Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205. Natural Wetlands Win Newlyconstructed wetlands don't ~ That's why Ohio state EPA ecof measure up to their natural coma-/[ ogist Siobhan Fennessy recent ly terparts, finds ti recent Ohio ~v corn-pared 7 natural anti I1 arti- study. Thc Clean Water Act allows the permitted destruction of wetlands under certain condi- tions, including the ]'cplaccment of each acre with 1.5 acr~ of restored or newly created wetland hab- itat. ~he assumption bas been that the new sites will do the same jobs of control- ling floods, filtering water and provkling wildlife habitat as tho old, natural sites. But the art of wetland construc- tion is still in its infancy, and there bas been little research so far about the quality of the resulling habitats ~ especially inland fl'eshwater wetlands. }ficial wcthmcls. The results: On average, the natural wetlands significantly uutpcr- fornmd tile others for each of Ihe three ]hain fur~ctions named above. Among the many findings was a higher percentage of native plant species, such as New England aster (left), in the nat- ural wethmds than in the artificial silos, "Time will show it the mitigation wet- lands continue to improve," reads Fetmessy's rcpo]'t. F, vcn if they dc so, she adds, "there still has n t: temporary loss of wetland fu.~ ,on- al ability fi'om the landscape." es from burning Mil;~netonka Fire Dept. for itel fire when she was ~d in the toaster and flames k thinking twelve-year-old died "911." Vacating the ", Lynch's actions saved the her with a commendation :ed with Minnetonka Fire ly News photo by Victoria ,~,' Att thorizcd ....... ' February 26, 1998 $1,8 million WilliSton Center renovation nears completion By Amy Cicchese Staff Reporter The $1~8 million renovation of the Williston Center in Minnetonka is nearing completion as the finishing touches are being added through- out the building. The work is scheduled to be completed in early March and will bring many new updates and additions to the center. The upgrade of the six lane by 25 yard Pool not only includes a refurbished roof, but also includes the addition of a whirlpool and a sauna in each of the locker rooms. Water aer6bics, group and private lessons along with lap and open swimming are all available with a membership. On the third floor, the state-of- the-art aerobics facility with mir- rored walls offers classes at vari- ous skill levels and at different times throughout the week. A batting cage addition has also been added to the center and includes two softball and two baseball cages, 'all with varied pitching speeds. To provide pro- fessional services to members, the Williston Center has a con- tract with Baseball U.S.A. The indoor facilities also pro- vide an opportunity to practice throwing and fielding year round, according to Recreation Services Director Dave Johnson. For a complete cardiovascular or weight training workout, four completely remodeled exercise and conditioning rooms are available. In one room treadmills and stair climbers can be found, Mark MacKenzie helps Dustin Rector, a senior at Hopkins High School, adjust his swing in a batting cage at the newly-renovated Williston Center in Minnetonka. Photo by Amy Cicchese in the next stationary bikes and rowers, another room offers a complete line of free weights, and still another room offers Cybe~ weight machines. · Five tennis courts provide leagues and lessons for all ages. The center has a contract with Pat Allar's Tennis Service to provide professional services to members. A multipurpose, full-size gym, which is still under construction, will be used for basketball and volleyball, along with other city recreation Programs. For families with younger chil- dren, the center offers baby-sit- ting facilities available with a meml~'ership. The building has also installed ramps and elevators so it is handicap accessible to all areas. The building was' purchased by the city for $600,000 in 1995 and at the time was a privately owned health club. "The owner offered it to the city for a reduced rate in October of 1995," Johnson said, adding that one of the conditions of the reduced rate was that the city keep the center as a public facility. "What we're trying to do now is change it from a private facility to a total family recre- ational facility." Annual memberships range from $240-$375 depending on age and residency. "Right now we have a membership base of ox~er 1,000 people," said Johnson. A grand opening celebration is sche~tuled for the end of March, and Minnetonka residents along with the general public are encouraged to check out the facil- ities. BIG WOODS BOSS G pe BLERS National Wild Turkey Federation 1998 Membership Banquet PECIALS and Lobster alad bar and choice ' · 2to. $16.95 .... ,i' ' Garlic Shrimp Pasta Includes salad bar SI 1.95 /~Served f'or o limited time~ ~ °nlyduringLent ~ ieservations Appreciated Walk-Ins Welcome ELL'S I I i Jefferson Blvd. ~ ' Big Lake o,,:ri, a,~, 612-263-6111 · 339-8628 , diagnose .rlier th. an e y- tistry Thanks to this new technologY, we can provide you with attractive, tooth -colored fillings faster and easier than ever before. : 4Down SkatePark 0Pens this 'Saturday in Plymouth 'By i,.;ally Tho~Pson' There is also a "strlet Minnesota Sun Publications box," "wall ride," %ub-boxes" and other Our Patients · . a~,e farnilyl'.'~ ..; "'~-' ';- -~ ..Y' ' Skateboard enthusiasts finally have a Place in Plymouth at which their skate- boards will be welcome. In addition, in,line skaters and BMX bikers also can use the facility. If final inspections are completed,.4 Down SkatePark will open at noon Satur- day, March 14, said Nan Morris, who, with her husband Tom, is one of the owners. Other owners are Chip Weeks and Kathy Phillips. The p~rk, at 2735 Cheshire Lane near the intersection of Highway 55 and Inter- state 494, will feature 40 feet of 8-foot quarter pipes, 30 feet of 6-foot'quarter bowl, a 16-foot starter wedge with rail and ledge and a 5-foot launch, Morris said. features, she said.' Morris Said the ~'acility will be Open from 3 to 10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 3' p,m. to midnight Fridays, 10 a.m. to midnight Saturdays and noon to 11 p.m. Sundays. Live music will be featured each Sat- urday night with a separate cover charge for non-skaters, she said. As an introductory offer, from March 14 through' mid-April, users can pur- chase a 13-month membership for $70 and get a free T-shirt, Morris said. Members pay $5 per day to use the fa- cility, and nonmembers pay $10 per day, she said. For more information on 4 Down SkatePark, call 383-0645. Camp Fire program lights 88 candles in celebration Anniversary set for March 15 in St. Louis Park By Michelle Wallin Minnesota Sun Publications The Camp Fire organization will cele- brate 88 years of service to youth with a birthday party from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 15. at Roller Garden, 5622 W. Lake St., St. Louis Park. The celebration is ~pen t~ the public and will include birthday cake, informa- tion about Camp Fire and prize draw- ings. Cost is $4 which includes roller 'skate rental. :- - ,'~. --,, Children from Camp Fire clubs -- in- ~-:/US=~" ~ ' eluding children from Hopkins, Wayzata, ' :: ~ , St. Louis Park, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Orono, Excelsior, Shorewood, Mound, Chanhassen and Eden Prairie ~- studied disability awareness Feb. 27 and 28 at an overnight retreat at Camp Tanadoona in Excelsior. "'Pacer Puppets' helped teach the chil- dren about disabilities," said Connie Nes- 00-4:00 p.m. ,r Community :neX°nka, MN 55305 PLYMOUTH bitt of St. Louis Park, volunteer regional service team manager for Camp Fire. "One puppet was deaf, one was blind, one had Cerebral Palsy and another had Down Syndrome." The children studied Braille and sign language. Another activity during the weekend was wheelchair races. About 33 people attended the retreat, including some parents and volunteers.' '" In anticipation of Camp Fire's' bii"th- . day, the children_donated ."birthday boxes" t6 looal 'food sheT~ds, Ne~hitt added. ' - The ~Camp~i~re spirit' has 'been shared among Young people since 1910, according to a news release from th~'Min. nesota Council of Camp Fire' B~ys ~and Girls. 4: : ..... ' ' - The first "Camp Fire Girls" group formed in Thetford, Vt. A summer camp for girls was being'operated in Maine on Lake Sebago and in the summer of 1910, more than 17 girls attended the camp. The group leaders began to disduss start- CAMP: To Page 1lA H°w to reach us: On the Web: 6974 Pima Lane Chanhassen, MN 55317 February 17, 1998 City of Chanhassen P.O. Box 147 Chanhassen, MN 55317 Attn: Todd Hoffmen Park & Recreation Director RE: Projected Walk Trail - Powers Blvd. Dear Mr. Hoffman: I only moved into my townhouse on June 1, 1997, and I had never heard a word about the proposed trail before purchasing my house. The first I knew about was when just this year, received the information in the mail. I have never been involved in a project like this, so I hope I am making the right moves right now. I am not against the trail, but I am requesting if at all possible, to put it on the west side of Powers. There is far more room there and would not inconvenience the homeowners on that side of the road nearly so much as the east side. I am also requesting in lieu of having it on the west side, if it does come on the east, could we have a privacy fence or hedge along the trail? I live very close to Kerber and there is very little privacy now, but it would be much worse with the trail. I am a widow and live alone, so I am quite concerned about the safety factor as well as being quite close to the projected trail. I am going to ask permission from the Association to plant a couple of trees in my yard, but back a bit from the proposed trail. This would help somewhat, but as it now is, my deck would be almost next to the trail. I offer this as my viewpoint on the subject, and am sending copies to the other members named on the notice. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Sincerely, arj o~e King c: Mayor and City Council Park & Recreation Commission Don Ashworth, City Manager Kate Aanenson, Planning Director Dave Nyberg, Howard R. Green Co. Joel Jamnick, Campbell Knutson Associates Elizabet. h t-iamilton 6.9'34 Pim~ Lane Ghar~hassen, HN 55217 612./470-.2 !37 998 FEB 1 8 1998 a3 it. i._ ~;'esent.]v, ,',~. have no Lrees :l oil ti.3Fr id_: ~now,n'~ob Jlers, pe<ies'" ians or bicv-'lers, .sl ! Thank i n9 yogi and a 11 others concerned, i am Sincerely, 4 .. r' , / ,C',/ ' · tZ..~¥//- ~X/~-~-~/~'.*;~--' Bel:~h Hamilton c: City Council Todd Hoffman, Park &Recreat. ion b,"da!'k ,S; ~)ec'reattion Comn~i:-ssic~rl Dor~ Ashwo~'th, City [,,ii:,:-~ Aanenson, Plar'~nin8 Director Jo,:~ Ja~nnick, CamF, bel] Knut. son Associates Lake Susan Fish Comings and Goings (from MnDNR records) 1924-29 .... 15,220 1947-48 320 3,600 3,920 1950-51 32,955 -- 32,955 1951-52 40,925 -- 40,925 1952-53 24,324 -- 24,324 1953-54 100 -- 100 1955-56 26,600 -- 26,600 1962-63 600 -- 600 1963-64 -- 5,900 5,900 1965-66 1,000 -- 1,000 1967-68 1,300 100 1,400 1979-80 21 71 92 1997-98 20,000 6,000 26,000* *estimated 1948 100,000 ...... 1950 100,000 ...... 1951 80,000 ...... 1956 500,000 -- 1,549 1,860 1990 80,000 5,300 .... 1991 80,000 ...... 1993 80,000 ...... 1994 80,000 ...... February 26, 1998 I, Michael C. Hammond, hereby declare my resignation as Facility Supervisor at the Chanhassen Recreation Center. This notice will take effect immediately and my last day of employment will be Friday, March 13, 1998. Respectfully, Michael C. Hammond March 10, 1998 Patty Dexter Recreation Supervisor City of Chanhassen 690 Coulter Drive Chanhassen, MN 55317 Dear Patty, As we discussed earlier in the week I have accepted a position with the Ridgedale YMCA. I want to express to you how much I appreciate the valuable experience I have gained here. It will be a great asset to me within my groxvth in the recreation field. My resignation as a Facility Supervisor will be effective immediately and my last day of work will be March 25t~,. Thanks you for your support and understanding. Sincerely, Priscilla Weber Patty Dexter City of Chanhassen Recreation Department 690 Coulter Drive, PO Box 147 Chanhassen, MN 55317 March 17, 1998 Dear Patty: As I have stated to you in previous conversations, I have accepted a position with the City of St. Louis Park and am hereby resigning my position as Facility Supervisor. My last day of employment will be March 31, 1998. My experience at the Chanhassen Recreation Center was a positive learning experience for me. I will always look back and be thankful for the opportunity to gain experience in my field. I wish you and all the Recreation staff'the best luck in the future. I also wish to thank all who were involved in making my time at the Chanhassen Recreation Center a fun and educational experience. Thank you for all of your help in further preparing me for my future experiences in this field. Sincerely, Mark Fahning PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 1998 A special meeting of the Chanhassen Park & Recreation Commission was called to order at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 1998. The following members were present: Chair Lash, Commissioners Fred Berg, Jim Manders, Rod Franks, and David Moes. Commissioners Roeser and Howe were absent. COMMUNITY PARK PROJECT REVIEW: Jeff Schoenbauer of Brauer & Associates confirmed priorities for Bandimere Community Park and City Center Park. Commissioner Manders moved to establish priority recommendations as received in the report dated March 9, 1998 from Jeff Schoenbauer ofBrauer & Associates. Motion seconded by Commissioner Berg and all voted in favor. The motion established the total cost estimate for City Center Park improvements at $500,000, with deletions of the following items to meet budget: · $15,000 for site preparation (to be completed by city crews) · $95,000 for the warming house structure including water and sanitary sewer service · $30,000 for the picnic shelter $38,000 for relocation of existing play equipment (to be completed by city/school district crews) · $45,000 for screening and pulverizing topsoil · $48,280 for ornamental features (arbors, fencing, etc.) · other site amenities The motion also established the estimated Bandimere Park Budget at $1,061,895 with the following deletions to meet budget: · $15,000 for site preparation (to be completed by city crews) · $210,000 for the park building, including domestic water and sanitary sewer · $57,000 for play equipment, curb, and pee-gravel · $5,000 for dumpster enclosure · $35,000 for player bench roof structures CARVER BEACH PARK, PARKING LOT IMPROVEMENTS, PRESENTATION OF PLANS BY HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP: Paul Page ofHoisington Koegler Group presented a plan depicting an asphalt parking area for seven cars at the entrance to the Carver Beach Park. The plan was recommended for approval by Franks, seconded by Moes. All voted in favor. CARVER BEACH PLAYGROUND, PARK TRAIL, AND PLAYGROUND REFURBISHMENT, PRESENTATION OF PLANS BY EARL F. ANDERSON & ASSOCIATES AND HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP: On behalf of Dave Owen of Earl F. Anderson, Todd Hoffman, Park & Recreation Director, presented plans to update the Carver Beach Playground. Paul Page of Hoisington Koegler Group presented a park plan identifying the location of the park trail. Comments from the audience requested the addition of some trees to the park, and that parking occur on only one side of the street adjacent to the park during the summer softball/baseball season. A recommendation to remove the fence surrounding two sides Park & Recreation Commission Minutes March 10, 1998 Page 2 of the park, adding shrubbery along the newly planned trail, and generally providing a make-over to the park was moved by Manders, seconded by Berg, with all commissioners voting in favor. At this point in the meeting, Loren Veltkamp of Lotus Trail made a request for a small stairway adjacent to the mini-beach at Carver Beach trail. The commission directed staff to construct such a stairway. CHANHASSEN HILLS PARK SKATING RINK LIGHT, PRESENTATION OF PLANS BY HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP: The commission requested that the light be relocated from the third base line to the first base line assuming that the portable warming house can be accommodated at this location. Other commissioner concerns included tipped over garbage cans and that a portion of the park trail continues to flood. At the conclusion of their conversation, Commissioner Franks moved that the skating rink light be moved to the first base line, that the trail be patched to repair the Iow area, and that an additional bench be installed adjacent to the playground. Seconded by Moes and all voted in favor. CURRY FARMS PARK, HALF COURT BASKETBALL, PRESENTATION OF PLANS BY HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP: Commissioners were most concerned about the ability of this site to withstand the construction of a basketball court. Poor soils and a high water table have caused problems with park development at this site in the past. However, Commissioner Manders moved, seconded by Commissioner Berg that the basketball half-court be installed with painted lines in the event that soil studies prove satisfactory. All voted in favor. HERMAN FIELD PARK AND PHEASANT HILL PARK, PHASE II PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT, PRESENTATION OF PLANS BY MIKE KORTH, MIDWEST PLAYSCAPES: Many residents of the Herman Field Park area were present to discuss the isolated nature of Herman Field Park. The park's location leads to a great deal of teenage activity, including underage drinking, smoking, and associated activities. Neighbors talked about the frustration that the park is always dirty, trees are snapped off or uprooted, and broken glass is prevalent. There was a request to replace what equipment has been destroyed and solve the problems with vandals. The neighbors called for additional policing, signage, and assistance in establishing a crime prevention plan with a focus on community policing and a crime watch area. The neighbors noted the positives about the park, that it is a gateway to the Minnewashta Regional Park, provides habitat for a varied wildlife population, and is private. At the conclusion of commissioner conversation and neighborhood input, Manders moved that all improvements be tabled, that a neighborhood meeting to establish a crime watch area be scheduled, that a park sign and trash receptacles be installed, that any equipment vandalized or removed in the past be reinstalled. Motion seconded by Franks and all voted in favor. Manders moved, seconded by Franks to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor and the motion carried. Todd Hoffman Park & Recreation Director PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION Janet Lash 4/89 - 4/99 Fred Berg 1/92 - 4/98 James Manders 1/93 - 4/98 Ron Roeser 1/93 - 4/99 Rod Franks 4/97 - 4/2000 Michael Howe 4/96 - 4/99 David Moes 2/98 - 4/2000 7001 Tecumseh Lane Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 474-1272 Work: 447-4139 Fax: 447-4159 6910 Chaparral Lane Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 474-8394 Work: 361-5470 Fax: 448-8627 6791 Chaparral Lane Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 470-9983 Work: 519-4633 Fax: 519-4591 222 Chan View Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 934-7896 No Fax 8694 Mary Jane Circle Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 949-2903 Work: 348-3780 Fax: 348-6332 Tues - Fri 2169 Stone Creek Drive Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 474-7270 Work: 673-1803 Fax: 673-1850 6241 Near Mountain Blvd. Chanhassen, MN 55317 Home: 470-1699 Work: 664-3933 Fax: 470-6327 (h)