Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 02/12/2015

Home

Motion by Commissioner Barr, seconded by Commissioner Fyten, to approve the following Park and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting Minutes: 1) Park and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting Minutes dated January 8, 2015. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chair Bennett, Commissioners Barr, Fyten. Chubb, Mobry, and Trappen. Voting No: None. Absent: 5. COMMISSION BUSINESS 5.01: Consider Recommendation Confirming Existing Master Parks and Trail Plan Regarding the Sketch Plan of Harvest Estates Located at 15153 Nowthen Blvd NW; Case of N.I.K. Management, Inc. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood reviewed the purpose of this case is to confirm the current Master Parks and Trail Plan as it relates to the Sketch Plan for Harvest Estates, a proposed 45 -lot detached, single - family subdivision on the former municipal center campus located at 15153 Nowthen Blvd. NW. the topics of confirmation include the following: Sketch Plan Review is a process outlined in City Code that provides an opportunity for the Planning Commission to review compliance with the Comprehensive Plan as well as Zoning and Subdivision Codes (City Code Chapter 117) before an Applicant spends resources on detailed civil engineering drawings. The Parks and Recreation Commission does not traditionally review Sketch Plans; however, given the significant policy topics, confirmation of direction is warranted before the Applicant proceeds with future review steps. This step is not required by Minnesota Statute Chapter 462; however, it provides for a more proactive and collaborative design approach in an effort to avoid issues at a later date. Master Park and Trail Plan As the redevelopment of the old municipal center has been discussed over a number of years and has taken a number of forms. A topic that routinely is raised is the potential for a new City Park. The City has routinely responded that it does not plan for a future City Park in this development. The area is well served by existing parks, connected through a series of pedestrian trails. Additionally, the focus of the Parks and Recreation Commission has shifted away from a series of smaller "pocket" parks to larger community parks with higher quality amenities connected through the City's pedestrian trail system. Alternatives Alternative #1. Confirm the policy direction to not include a City park within the proposed development. This alternative would allow the proposed development to move forward as presented. Park Dedication and Trail Development obligations would be satisfied by cash contribution. Park and Recreation Commission /February 12, 2015 Page 2 of 4