Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 04/10/1997

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A video titled, "The Butchart Gardens" located in Victoria, Canada was viewed. Ms. Haas Steffen also provided the Commission with a video titled, "Longwood Gardens" and a book, Bellingrath, for additional reference purposes. Mr. Bruce Bacon, part-time City tree inspector, inquired about the particpatory planning process for patrons of an arboretum. Ms. Haas Steffen referred to the Quad Cities indicating virtually non- existent maintenance costs, learning opportunities, possible research involvement by the U of M, and growing of plant life on the islands. Besides gardens, the arboretum complex could include a learning center, sculptures, planting, ponding, lights, and commercial businesses. Mr. Boos added such a development could benefit economic development as well as affording Ramsey some claim to fame. Chairperson Cook noted potential connections could be made for trail corridor purposes (i.e. Kelley Farm). Mr. Boos commented there are funds available for development of some connections. Ms. Haas Steffen indicated a desire to see consideration of older buildings being moved onto the site (i.e. school house). Discussion ensued regarding formulation of a recommendation to Anoka County in favor of development of Mississippi West Park, including an arboretum. Ms. Haas Steffen encouraged Commission members to make reference to resources of already established arboretums in a recommendation. Mr. Boos added the Commission could request the County have a landscape architect student--maybe from the U of M--develop a visual plan to present. Ms. Haas Steffen referred to the Mississippi River and its potential of use in a positive way for an arboretum; she has definite ideas for its development. Commissioner Ostrum inquired about the extent of land being proposed for arboretum development and expressed his accompanying doubt that a full scale area was realistic. Ms. Haas Steffen stated her openness to compromise regarding size of the arboretum. Mr. Boos added options could be explored similar to those resources used in analyzing Trott Brook. Commissioner Rolfe reminded Commission members that Anoka County is looking for a tree arboretum. He indicated a need for Anoka County to view Ms. Haas Steffen's concept along different lines given all its implications and how they relate to the County's desires. Ms. Haas Steffen did not believe specific acreage is the issue, but that it is more important to start out with a concept and get people vested into it accordingly. Ms. Haas Steffen's primary purpose for approaching the Commission was to obtain support; she will be approaching the County either way. Motion by Commissioner Ostrum and seconded by Commissioner La_Mere authorizing staff and others to explore an arboretum concept and start research accordingly. Motion by Commissioner Rolfe and seconded by Commissioner Johns to amend the fore motion encouraging further exploration for development of a community arboretum cultural center. Park and Recreation Commission/April 10, 1997 Page 4 of 6