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96-325S �.b5�;��.�r�. - �1ay�a� Green sheet # d 9 Z � 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 I1 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 RESOLUTtON CiTY OF SAtNT PAUL, MINNESOTA Presented By Council File # _` � " � � S � Referred To Committee: Date Resolution Adopting the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan as a Chapter of The Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul is authorized under Mimlesota Statutes, Section 462353, to carry on comprehensive municipal planning acfivities for guiding the future development and improvement of the city; and WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul as a local governmental unit within the metropolitan area is required under Minnesota Statutes, Section 473.858, to prepare a Comprehensive Plan in accordance with Laws of 1976, Chapter 127; and WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Saint Paul is authorized under Minnesota Statutes, Section 462.355, to adopt or amend a Comprehensive Plan or portion thereof after a recommendation by the Ciry's planning agency; and WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul Administrative Code, Section 105.06, requires the Parks and Recreation Commission to recommend changes to the parks and recreation element of the City's comprehensive plan, with input from the City's Planning Commission; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Saint Paul adopted on March 21, 1985, a comprehensive plan chapter for parks and recreation; and WHEREAS, the City's administration used that plan to guide its investment of capitai resources and development of programs throughout the subsequent decade; and WHEREAS, the 1985 plan no longer provided useful guidance on key policy and invesrinent issues, leading the Pazks and Recreation Commission to request that a new plan be undertaken to address a broader range of issues than those covered in the 1985 plan, which focused on delivery of recreational services in response to significant budget reducfions; and WHEREAS, in March 1992, the Parks and Recreation Commission appointed the Park Planning Task Force to wark with Pazks and Recreation Division and Pianning Division staff to update the plan; and WHEREAS, the task force, after holding nuruerous meetings, forums, and workshops to garner public input, developed and recommended the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan to the Parks and Recreation Commission; and WHEREAS, after its review and a public hearing on May 17, 1995, and after receiving comments and a recommendation from the Planning Commission, the Pazks and Recreation Commission recommended the Saznt Paul Parks and Recreation Plan on September 13, 1995, to the Mayor and CiTy Council for adoption; and 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 °C L - 3as WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Saint Paul held public hearings on the plan on April 3 and May 1, 1996, and asked the Pazks and Recrearion Commission to review and comment on the testimony received; and WHEREA5, the Parks and Recreation Commission approved comments and recommendations in response to the City Council public hearing testimony at its meeting on June 12, 1996; and WFIEREAS, the City Council has considered the recommendations of the Pazks and Recreation Coxnmission, and has reviewed the plan, and found it to be consistent with the other adopted elements of the comprehensive plan, and wlth the overall health, safety and welfaze of the residents of the City of Saint Paul; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saint Paul hereby adopts the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan, as amended, as a chapter of The Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan, subject to sucfi review by the Metropolitan Council as may be required by law; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan replaces the plan for parks and recreation adopted in 1985. Requested by Department �f: Adoption Certified by Council �'ecretary BY� 1\ d� Z. . al+�'�..v— Approved by Mayor: Date � �() � U � C` " By: � "'ga'rYt, and Recreation Division BY: �� Form Approved by City Attorney By: Approved by Mayor for Submission to Counci� _ L!? „ _ // (7 B �� � �� ( a� -��sl .�,, nn-i.n DEPARTMENT/pFFICE/COUNCIL DATE INITIATEO I V_ L�J / I O Parks and Recreation/PBD 2�21/96 : G��SHEET � INITIAVDATE INITIAL/DATE GOMAClPEBSON&PHONE DEPARTMEMPIRE CIT'COUNCIL Donna Drummond ext. 6-6556 � , dS51('.N �CRYATTORNEY y �i '�->S �CRYGLERK MUST COUtyCtL AGENDA BY (DA ) Rp�N� O SUDGET D{REG�OR� � FIN. & MGT. SERVICES DtR. Apt'il 3, 1996 p b11C hearing oeoEx y�Mpypq�ppp��� �KenFo��( T # OF SIGNATUR GES 2 (CIIP ALL LOCATIONS POR SIGNATURE) ACTION REOUESTBD: Sign a letter transmitting the Saint Paul Parks and ReCreation P2an to the City Council - and the Council resolution by which it will be adopted. The resolution adopting the plan needs to be scheduled as a public hearing.on the City Council RECAMMEN�ATIONS: Approve (A) or Reject (R1 pERSONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS MUST ANSWER TNE FOLLOWING �UEST�IONS: 1. Has this rsonttir'm ever worked under e contract for this tle artment?' `` � � PL4NNING COMMISSION _/� CIVII SERVICE COMMISSION Pe D _ p GB CAMMITTEE y� PacKs 0..d IYCC�'e�5 YES NO L` STAFF �-0w�w�iss�cn 2- HasthispersonRirmeverbeenaciiyemployee? 1�!{��1 �9� — YES NO _ DIS7RIC7 COUF77 � 3. Does this perSONfirm possess a skill not normally possessed 6y any cunent city employee? SUPPORTSWHICHCAUNGllO&IEGTIYE? YES NO %''�'�''�`{�'�'� �:h'�Y:''�.,4 Recrekt 4� /�e�yti bo: �cod s Explain all yes answers on separete sheet and attach to 9�een sheet Econo*+��c Oev�lcy�++e„1 INITIATING PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORNNIN ('Mio, Whaq Whan. Where, WBy�. This plan, which will be a chapter in the City's Comprehensive Plan, was undertaken at the request of the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission to replace the existing plan that was adopted in 1985. The new plan was developed by a task force that included representatives from the Parks Commission and Planning Commission, as we11 as citizens with various interests and backgrounds related to parks and recreation. ADVANTAGES IF APPROVED The City, in particular the Parks and Recreation Division, will have strategies and specific policies to guide future development, operations and maintenance of the Saint Paul parks and recreation system. . - �'�� DISADVANTAGES IFAPPROVED. ������� None apparent. � „� 4.a,;`3;".E:;3 .�,_'��' u:;:`i�;19 g � ��B 2$ 1596 d5�`�i1�6 � �� lei.�i� -_.-, ---»�_ .. __ ___ _ �� Ct�Y ��' � �Y DISADVANTAGES IF NOT APPROVED� � " The City, in particular the Parks and Recreation Division, Mayor, and City Council, will not have an up-to-date policy framework to guide future management and investment decisions related to the parks and recreation system. TOTAL AMOUNT OF 7RANSACTION $ —� CASTIREYENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE) YES NO FUNDIfdG SOURCE ACTIVIiV NUMBEq FINANCIAL INFORMATION� (EXPLAIN) . Council File # � _ 3 .r, ,� Green Sheet # RESOLUTION CfTY OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Presented By Referred To c _.._ .. =---- • Resolution Adopting the Saint Paul Parks and Recre on Plan as a Chapter of The Saint Paut Comprehensiv Plan WHEAEAS, the City of Saint Paul is authorized under Mimzesota S tes, Section 462.353, to cany on comprehensive municipal plamiing activities for guiding the future velopment and improvement of the city; and WHEREAS, the Ciry of Saint Paul as a local governmental t within the metropolitan azea is required under Minnesota Statutes, Section 473.858, to prepare a Co prehensive Plan in accordance with Laws of 1976, Chapter 127; and WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Saint Paul is thozized under Minnesota Statutes, Section 462355, to adopt or amend a Comprehensive Plan o portion thereof after a recommendation by the City's planning agency; and WI3EREAS, the City of Saint Paul Adm Recreation Commission to recommend c] comprehensive plan, with input from the WHEREA5, the City Council of the chapter for parks and recreation; and �e Code, Section 105.06, requires the Parks and to the parks and recreation element o£ the City's Planning Commission; and Saint Paul adopted on March 21, 1985, a comprehensive plan WHEREAS, the City's administrati used that plan to guide its investment of capital resources and development of programs through t the subsequent decade; and WHEREAS, the 1985 plan no nger provided useful guidance on key policy and investxnent issues, leading the Parks and Recreaf n Commission to request that a new plan be undertaken to address a broader range of issues than ose covered in the 1985 plan, which focused on delivery of recreational services in response to sig ficant budget reductions; and WHEREAS, in March 92, the Parks and Recreation Commission appointed the Park Plamiing Task Force to work with P k and Recreation Division and Planning Division staff to update the plan; and WHEREAS, the input, develope Commission; �nf force, after holding numerous meetings, forums, and workshops to garner public recommended the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan to the Parks and Recreation WHEREAS, after its review and a public hearing on May 17, 1995, and after receiving comments and a recommendation from the Planning Commission, the Pazks and Recreation Commission recommended the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Ptan on September 13, 1995, to the Mayor and City Council for adoption; and � 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 �. �. -.3 a s WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Saint Paul has review the Saint Pau1 Parks and Recreati ' n Plan, and found it to be consistent with the other adopted elements of the comprehensive plan, and c�ith the overall health, safety and welfaze of the residents of the City of Saint Paul; � NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saint Paui h eby adopts the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan as a chapter of The Saint Paul Comprehensiv Plan, subject to such review by the Meh�opolitan Council as may be required by law; and BE TT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan rep ces the pian for parks and recreation adopted in 1985. Requested by Department o£: Park and Recreation ; s : Adopted by Counci Adoption Certif'ec By: Approved by Mayor: By: Date by Council Secretary Date Form Approved by City Attorney c'i� Interdepartmental Memorandum CITY OF SAINT' PAUL DAT'E: June 28, 1996 �� TO: City Council President Dave Thune and , Members of the City Council FROM: Robert Piram, Superintendent, Parks and Recreation Divis�r����:,._�. Donna Drummond, Planning Division�vw���n�ww�o�ot RE: Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan: Parks and Recreation Commission Response to City Council Public Hearing Testimony Attached for your consideration are the Saint Paul Pazks and Recreation Commission's recommendations for changes to the draft Parks and Recreation Plan. As you may recall, the City Council held public hearings on the draft plan on April 3 and May 1, 1996. At that time, the Council asked the Pazks and Recreation Commission to review and comment on the public heazing testimony. At its meeting on June 12, 1996, the Parks Commission approved the comments and recommendations inciuded in the attached memo. The resolution adopting the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan will be on the City CounciPs July 10 agenda. A substitute resolution, simply updated to reflect the referral of public hearing testimony to the Pazks Commission, and subsequent amendments to the plan, will be included in your packets for the 7uly 10 meeting. Please call Robert Piram (266-6404) or ponna Drummond (266-6556) if you haue any questions about these materiais. cc: Mayor Norm Coleman Ken Ford, Planning Administrator q�-�as Saint p _ paul ecreation 304 tYty Hall Annex, 25 W. 4th S�cet, Saint Paul, MI�1 55102 -- 612R66-6400 MEMOBANnUM DATE: TO: FROM: RE: June 12, 1996 City Council President Dave Thune and Members of the Saint Paul Ciry Council Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission Parks and Recreation Plan: Recommended Changes Based on City Council Public Hearing Testimony Introduction On April 3 and May 1, 1996, the City Council conducted public heazings on the drafr Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan, as recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission. Five people spoke at the public heazing (mostly in support of written comments), and written testimony was received from seven individuals or groups. The Ciry Council asked the Parks and Recreation Commission to consider this testunony, and recommend appropriate changes to the plan. This memo summazizes the oral testimony, and provides a point-by-point Parks Commission response and recommendation to the written testimony. Oral Testimonv On April 3, three people spoke at the hearing. Clup Welling, Memam Park resident, stated that the City has a great parks system. He said bicycle lane striping on Summit Ave. has been a major improvement, although downtown is still bad for bicyclists. He supports the current and future improvements depicted on the Trail System map (p. 11). Paul Gilliland, District 2 resident, spoke in support of written comments submitted by the District 2 Communiry Councii (covered below). Will Sorlein, Arlington Youth Club, noted that Arlington Recreation Cerner, although one of the smallest recreation centers in the city at 2 acres, has the sixth highest level of participation and use. He said the inventory of recreation centers on p. 38 should be corrected in that Arlington has no tennis or basketball court, and only 1 sofrball field. On May 1, two people spoke at the heazing. Tom Kelly, chair, Como Park Committee, District 10, spoke in support of written comments submitted by the District 10 Como Communiry Council (covered below). Karen Swenson, District 2 resident, spoke in support of slightly revised written comments submitted by the District 2 Community Council (covered below). Written Testimonv Wzitten comments were submitted by 7 individuals ox groups. These aze presented in full as submitted, with a staff response following each point. The written comments submitted are in regular type, the Corrunission response is in italics. Suggested deletions to the text of the plan are crossed out, additions are underlined. The Commission would like to emphasize that any additions to the plan Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commissioners: Jill Dnnner, Chairperson; Terrence Huntrods, Vice-C6airperson David Goodlow, Kennetfi Mauer, Blia Moua, 7ohn O'I�alloran, Caml Osip, Phil Ravitzky, Karen Skwira a 4 _��' Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council 7une 12, 1996 that would require additional resources (staff, fac9lities, or both) should be qualified by the availabIliry of adequate resources. Council President Dave Thune x The new policy suggested below (to follow Policy 26, under Objective 8 on p. 19) would encourage the City to be open to new, emerging recreation trends, such as skateboarding, that will better meet the recreation needs of St. Paul residents. Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and programming that contributes to stable neighborhoods. new 27. Consider providing facilities or nrogramming for alternative, emerginE recreation trends. particulazlv those that meet the recreational needs of vouth (such as skateboardine). Commission response: Agree, however, it would be best to avoid the refererzce to a specifzc activiry, which may become limiting. Councilmember Janice Rettman * Add a new policy 24, p. 16, under Objective 6: Foster the economic development potential of the City's park and recceation system. 24. Pursue nublic/nrivate workine partnerships in re ig•onal parks only if additional financing sources will promote the adeQUate maintenance of currentpark facilities and nroQram as we11 as ensure that the St. Paul Reeional Pazks remain free and accessible to all. Commission response: Slightly modified wording is recommended to clarify meaning. 24. Pursue publiclprivate vartnerships in re i�onal parks that frnancially support the adequate maintenance oj parks facilities and pro¢ramming, as lon2 as access to St. Paul reQional parks remai�ee for ald. * Add the underlined language to policy 45, p. 24, under Objective 13: Increase utilization of supplemental resources. 45. Pursue opportunities to secure federal, state, and private resources (e.g. grants, partnerships) when and where possible to: a. Ensure free access to programs and facilities. b. Provide the organizational capacity to change service delivery, including the provision of new services. c. Build, operate, and maintain facilities; and d. Expand services beyond the general fund budget (e.g. specialist contracts, community education� provided ffiat the intent of the Parks Division is to expand access or opportunities for citizens and not develop pro¢rams or elcpand services only to solel� generate revenues or establish a s�ecial revenue fund. Commission response: First, sdighZly modified wording zs recommended to clarify meaning. Add "or � G'' ''S Councfl President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 affordable" after ee in a. The word "free" could prohibit charging even a modest fee for programs and use of facilities for which there is now a fee (e.g. skiing, go�. Second, the addition¢Z Zanguage suggested for d. is probably not necessary if looked at in the context of the objective. The paragraph explaining Obj. I3: "Increase utili2ation of supplemental resources. " under which policy 45 is found (p. 24), explains the intent of this poticy by stating, "Supptemental resources such as fees, grants, and partnerships, allow the Division to provide services people want which appropriated funds alone cannot suppoR. In some cases, supplemental resources are necessary to ensure access to services for all members of our community ". The Parks Division should not provide services soleZy to generate revenues for other programs, unless the revenue generated is funneled back to support parks and recreation activities. Councilmember Mike Harris Objective 1: Encourage protection, pieservation, and regeneiation of the ciry's open space and natural resources. * Add to Policy 2, p. 7. 2. Provide leadership and coordination with federal, state, regional, and local authorities to: a. Develop management and protection strategies for endangered species and/or sensitive habitats; b. Provide adequate and consistent enforcement of regulations to protect water quality, wetlands, native habitats, and the river corxidor. c. Ooen a cleaner and more friendlv river to swimmers and other recreational users. Commission response: The Commission believes there are safer opportunities for swimming than the Mississippi River. The addition without the specific reference to swimming is recommencled, as follows: c. Ooen a cleaner and more friendlv river for recreational users. * Delete the last sentence of Policy 5, p. 7. 5. Take advantage of opportunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the City's open space and natural resources. :'���.:�T :::'��� ° � «„ ,. ..,...«,...:«:�.. «,�... ,,,. Commission response: The City needs to be open to all opportunities to add open space, but particularly in those cases where there will not be an adclitional maintenance or operating cost for the City. The sentence should remazn in. * Add to Policy 6, p. 8. 6. Encourage riverfront development that is environmentally compatible with its unique location and fosters a pazk-like riverfront chazacter, includine but not limited to, onenine the riverfront to more personal recreation activities like swinunine, fishine, and canoein� ��.�a Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 Commission response: Agree, if the addikan is ended ¢fter personal recreation activities. " without referring to specifzc activities. Reference to specifac activities can be too Zimiting (other desirable activities may be exctuded), and again, the Commission is concerned about the safety of encouragzng swimming in the Mississippi. '� Add to Policy 12, p. 12, under Objective 4: Fulfill pazk development priorities. 12. In the Local Pazks and Recreation System the City will give priority to all of the following (map): a. Completion of Community Recreation Centers (North Dale and Battle Creek); b. Focus on upgrading identified Neighborhoods in Transition centers: c. Provision of facilities to accommodate emerging sports and other activities; d. Redevelopment of Highland Park; e. Improvement of facilities that support opportunities for coordination and partnership; f. Upgrading of Swede Hollow Pazk-� g, Review of existine demo¢raphic and economic data for nossible additions to identified N�hborhoods in Transition Centers. Commission response: Agree, but with the replacement of "additions " with "changes ". * Add to Policy 26, p. 19, under Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and programming that contributes to stable neighborhoods. 26, Provide xecieation programming that helps build a sense of community through: a. Responsiveness to the diverse needs and desires of residents; b. Enhaucement and celebration of neighboihood identity; c. Improved outreach to all residents, inciuding those not currently using recreation services- and d. Maacimizine our fixed assets to keep recreation centers onen 7 davs a week. Commission response: Agree, with slightly modified wording to clarify meaning and better match the phrasing of the rest of the recommendation, as follows: d. Keepine recreation centers open 7 da� week as need and av¢ilable resources pernait. * Add to Policy 36, p. 21, under Objective 10: Foster opportunities for on-going community and citizen involvement and feedback. 36. Involve all constiments (residents, park users, interest groups) in setting balanced priorities for progranuning, maintenance, use of facilities, phvsical enhancement or develonment of facilities and/or onen snaces, and other park-related matters. Site nlans for facilitv improvements wiil be submitted to the Planning Commission and Citv Council for review and approval. Commission response: Agree with the addition of the first phrase. Regarding the Zast sentence, requiring Planning Commission and Ciry Council review and approval for all p¢rks faciliries site plans � �� r �� Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council June 12, 1996 would m.ake government Zess responsive, rather than more responsive. Aii site plans for construction in the city are now reviewed by a team of City staff from various departments. (Site plan review is detailed in Sec. 62.108 of the Zoning Code.) District councils receive notifzcation of alt site ptan reviews. Individuals or groups m�ry request PZ¢nning Commission review of a particular site plan. Planning Commission deczsions may be appealed to Ciry Council. This system provides adequate safeguards, without unduly slowing down the timeline for making planned improvements. There are approximately 20-30 parks-reZated building projects every year. To require Planning Commission and City Council review on all would add tremendously to the time and workload of all concerned without aclding measurable benefzts. * Add an action step in the Implementation Plan under "Design and Development" on p. 28. Site nlans for facilitv imurovements will be submitted to the Plam�in¢ Commission and Citv Council for review and an�roval. Commission response: As stated above, the Commission believes that adding steps to the formal review process will make goverrzment less responsive rather than more.In addirion, steps add costs to the process as well at all levels. The current appeals process has worked well in cases where there are po(icy and community concerns. '` Replace action step 19 on p. 29. 19 . �—,...«-=-- -- o ..i ,. _�w «�, a_....«= ------=:«., .wo ..,...�;t,:r.., ,.c vee..:.... n..r,...•:....+ _.,'"` '` "� _._ r _.,_'.,"""� _' "" �.'"- �'....' ,. r°��°°° :� T�.•�- ��..°�° °°�,� Explore the possibilitv of moving Cafesgan's Carousel to Como Park. Commission response: Como Park already has a large number of attractions that draw people. The Commission cannot recommend adding more attractions without a review process that includes the Carousel Board and the community. Also, a mave to Como would require construction of a building to accommodate the carousel. The following wording, which doesn't rule out a Como Park Zocation, is suggested, "Continue to explore the possibilities for keeoin2 Cafesjian's Carousel in St. Paul. " * Add a new action step on p. 29 under "Outreach, Awazeness, and Promotion" . Comuile an inventorv of all the joint use a¢reements that Parks and Recreation has with various schools, universities, and other institutions in order to publicize the op�ortunities for nazks users. Furthermore. in light of recent facilitv expansions by the St. Paul 5chool District. Parks and Recreation needs to clarifv the le¢al status of those documents. Commission response: Agree with the first sentence, but would suggest this be added as a new d. under action step 21 under Outreach, Awareness, and Promotian on p. 29, which addresses ways of encouraging communiry use of recreation facilities. The second sentence is probably not needed. Staff are not aware of any problems or ambiguiry with any of the Zegal documents that define joint use arrangements with the school district. The staff will review these agreements as they compile the inventory. ��'��` Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council Jmme 12, 1996 �` Add a policy to require City participation in the VJinter Carnival, including a regululy scheduled Ice Casfle (i.e. every five years). Commission response: The City has a Zong history of participating in the �nter Carnival, This includes offering joint activities and sharing facilities each year with the St. Paul Feskval and Heritage Foundarion, the private group that operates the �nter Carnzval. The foundation determines when an ice castle should be built (and does the major fundraising); Parks and Recreation hns assisted by providing a pubZic space for it. This is just one example of the marry community partners the Parks and Recreation Division works with each year. Friends of the Parks and TraiLs of St. Paul and Ramsev Countv * p. 7, Objective 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space and natural resources. new policy 6. Work with Ramsev Countv to ensure the hiehest water aualitv in our lakes and streams that is possible. Commission response: Agree, with some slight modifications, as follows: Work with Ramsev Countv and others to ensure the highest possible water aualitv in the citv's lakes and streams. � new policy 7. Support institutine new zoning code for nazk lands. Commission response: Zoning is generally implemented to ensure appropriate development and use of land. The idea of adding a zoning category for park land was studied in some detail several years ago with the Parks Commission and Planning staff. It was determined that a separate zoning category was a timeconsuming process and could create more problems than it would solve. The city charter amendment approved several years ago makes it very difficult for the City to sell or give up parkland; and if this is determined to be necessary, land must be found to replace it in the park system. 77tis serves the purpose of designating ancl protecting parklands in Saint Paul. * new policy 8. Bluff lands throuehout the city should be nrotected bv easements or acquisition. Commission response: Most of the city's bluffZands are already protected in one way or another, either through public ownership or through buflding restrictions. This polzcy is probably not necessary. * p. 10, Objective 3: Develop park and open space connections. Policy 8. Pursue opportunities to expand the Ciry's recreational trail system and give priority to development of trails which: new e. Provide north-south bicycle-pedestrian connection. (All pazkways and boulevards and potential main corridors such as Avd Mill Road should accommodate bicvcle and a`-�� Council Pzesident Thune and Members of the Ciry Council June 12, 1996 pedestrian traffic. i.e. I,exinaton Pazkwav and Avd Mill Roadway_ Viewing the Trail System map, p. 11, the lack of a north-south connection is evident. It is important to provide bicycle/pedesuian trails in the heart of the city. The map highlights the difficulty in getting to Como Pazk from anywhere in the southwest portion of the ciry. Commission response: The nonh-south connections are not there now, but they are planned. The trail map on p. 11 indicates a planned off-road path and on-street bike lanes connection along Ayd Mild, Pascal, and Hamline to connect to Como Park from the southwest. * new f. Sepazate bike and pedestrian facilities should be nxovided when Wheelock Pazkwav is redevelooed. Commission response: As indicated on the trail map, p. II, and in Policy IOd. (p. 10), this is what is planned for Wheelock. * p. 16 ObjCCtivO 6: °��.� `t,o ,to vi,. .,« ..,..e..«:,,i ,.c «�.e n:.. _v ..a „«:., s�ste�r Foster parks and recreation as a valuable asset of the citv. Commission response: The original wording of this objective should remain. The recommendations under this objective have what could be termed econo»zic development benefits for the city, so the original wording is more descriptive. * p. 19, Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and programming that contributes to stable neighborhoods. The recreation centers are called upon to do more and mpre activities that could be labeled °Human Services". The St. Paul Parks and Recreation Division should focus on recreational activities and the infrastructure, i.e. provide the buildin¢, while the city works out more uartnerships with human service providers. such as Ramsev Countv or the Family Center Proeram to provide the services. If the Parks Division becomes more involved in human services, they will not have the resources to fulfill their mission of pzovidin¢ recreational services. Manv recieation centers aze lax¢e buildings which should not be considered the domain of only the Parks Division. The centers should be a lace for the neiehborhood to eather where they can join in recreational activities or receive a variety of services. Commission response: This recommendation is not necessary, as Parks and Recrearion programming does focus on recreational activities. Most people would probably agree that these activities have some associated social benefits. And the staff do feel that recreation centers are communiry gathering places where residents can take advantage of programming or services provided by others. The location of a number of district council offices and meeting rooms in recreation centers is probably the best example. * Add detailed Table of Contents itemizing policies and objectives - to make it easier to read. 7 �� _�zs Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council June 12, 1996 Commisszon response: This will be done in the fanal printing. '` Some policies are in conflict - such as Policy 1. "Pursue opportunities and parmerships to acquire land specifically for open space and natural resources protection according to the foilowing criteria, etc. and Policy 5. "Take advantage of opportunities that azise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the City's open space and natural resources. Priority will be given to opportunities that do not add publicly-owned and developed pazkland that will require additional public maintenance or operating expense. Commission response: The Commission does not believe that these policzes are in conflict. It is probably possible to come up with circumstances where policies could be in conflict, but generally the policies are written to cover a wide variety of circumstances and issues. Judgment must be used to determine which policy is the most relevant to a particular situation. * There is no mention of enterprise facilities such as golf, Midway Stadium, large picnic shelters, etc. There shouid be a policy stating that it a facility is revenue generating, a certain percent of the revenue should be reinvested in the facility in order to maintain it. Commission response: This is a very complicated issue that the Parks Commission has been looking at for some time. 772e Parks Commission will continue to work on revenue issues. A general policy intended to cover specific budget issues and circumstances that change from year to year probably doesn't belong in a long-range comprehensive plan. * In the 1996-1997 Action Plan, dollars aze listed under certain steps. What is the source of this revenue? As outiined in the document itself, state and federal dollars are being reduced and the city budget is flat. If new larger recreation cemers are built, how will the ciry be able to staff them? Commission response: The identification of dollar resources needed to accomplish various action steps was an attempt to inform the reader of the potential budget impact of that action step. Largely, these costs have not been specifzcally budgeted for. They will be accomplished within the existing budget as much as possible. Heritase Preservation Commission * Major Strategies (p. 4) Shaping City Character This strategy recognizes that pazks, parkways, and natural and historic features lend form, character, and identity which enhance the City and its neighborhoods. It aiso recognizes that the existing system of parks, parkways, and nawral and historic resources provides a strong framework to build on. The policies in this strategy focus on preservation, maintenance, and development of the park and recreation system and the City's natural and historic resources. Commission response: Agree. �� -� �s Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry CouncIl June 12, 1996 * Strategy: Shaping City Character (p. 5) ... The Parks and Recreation Division must continue to explore ways to enhance and preserve the City's natural and historic environment and provide opporiunities for people to become more awaze of the natural and historic environment ... Commission response: Agree. * Findings: (p. 5) new 10. Saint Paul's park svstem includes structures and landscane feariues that are historically valuable. Their vreservation is important to the continued vitalitv of the citv. Commission response: Agree. * p. 7, Objective 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space, natural, and historic resources. Saint Paul's open space, natural, and historic resources provide many benefits ... The Division is continuously confronted with demands to expand recreational opportunities and increase access to develaoed and undeveloped parkland. Consequernly, the City's open space and historic resources may become wlnerable to unwarranted use and degradation ... Commission response: Agree. �` p. 7, Policy 2. Provide leadership and coordination with federal, state, regional, and local authorities to: a. Comvlete and maintain an inventorv of historic resources, includin¢ site analvsis and evaluation of inteQritv and sienificance. b. � Develop management and protection strategies for endangered species and/or sensitive habitats and historically imnortant structures and features. Commission response: Agree, with the addition of "natural and" before historic resources in a. * p. 8, Objective 2: Expand physical and visual access to the River. Policy 6. Encourage riverfront development that is environmentally compatible with its historv and unique location, and fosters a park-like riverfront chazacter. Commission response: Agree. * p. 15, Objective 5: Enhance the City and its neighborhoods. Policy 14. Provide site and facility design, rehabilitation, and retrofitting that: � � -�'`� Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 c. Respects and enl�ances historically imnortant structures and features and the natural and historic environment; Commission response: This addition seems unnecessary, since the dause already refers to enhancing the historic environment. * Strategy: Building Community p. 21, Objective 11: Promote cultural awareness. St. Paul possesses a rich cultural heritage and broad spectrum of arts, historical, and ethnic resources. These resources inciude the park system itself, and its historic structures and features. Commission response: Agree. '� p. 21, Policy 40. Encourage the nreservation of historicallv important park structures and features and the use of park facilities to host public cultural and historic events. Commission response: The recommendations under Objective 11, where policy 40 is founcl, deal with programming. This addition really doesn't fit here. It is adequately covered by Policy 2.b, as amended, (protection of historic resources) and l4. c. (site and facility design that respects the historic enviranment). District 2 Communitv Council Objective 4: Fuifill park development priorities. * Add an item to Policy 12, p. 12. 12. In the Local Parks and Recreation System the City will give priority to all of the following (map): a. Completion of Community Recreation Centers (North Dale and Battle Creek); b. Focus on upgrading identified Neighborhoods in Transition centers: c. Provision of facilities to accommodate emerging sports and other activities; d. Redevelopment of Highland Park; e. Improvement of facilities that support opportunities for coordination and partnership; f. Upgrading of Swede Hollow Park ; g. Review of existing demographic and economic data for possible additions to identified Neighborhoods in Transition Centers (g. was added above); and h. Coordinate with Public Works. DNR. and Ramsey-Washin¢ton Watershed District in the Phalen/Ames L,ake wetland restoration uroiect. Commission response: Agree. The map illustrating these items ¢lso needs to be modifaed. * Amend Policy 13, p. 12. 10 o��_�a5 Council President Thune and Members af the City Council June 12, 1996 13. Pursue opportunities and joint use partnerships to acquire or provide access to land for pazks_ �en s acn e, or � recreation development according to the following criteria: ... Commission response: Agree. " Add an action item under "Design and Development" on p. 28. Work with Public Works. DNR. Ramsev-Washington VJatershed District and the Universitv of Minnesota to develop nlans for the Phalen/Ames Lake wetland restoration. (12) Commission response: Agree, with slightZy revised wording: ParticiDate with Public Works. DNR. Ramsev-Washinxton Watershed District and the Universitv of Minnesota in the �reparation o lans for the Phalen/Ames I,ake wetland restoration. (12) * In generai, the plan does not place enough emphasis on the role of open space as an amenity and an enhancement to the livability of the urban landscape. Add a new finding on p. 5 for the Shaping City Character Strategy. new 10. In addition, St. Paul residents beneFit from the use of recreational and open space managed by other entities. These include Ramsev Countv Parks. Water Department onen space. Public Works and Metro�olitan Council on nding_and drainaee areas, and urivate recreation lands. If possible, numbers of parcels, acreage, etc. shouid be indicated as they have been in other categories in this section. Commission response: Agree, but would delete references to Metropolitan Council ponding and drainage areas (staff doesn't believe there are arry in St. Paul). Also, figures on number of sites and acreage of these other types of open space is not readily available and would be costly to collect. * Include a map of ali open space. Commission response: Again, this would be nice to have, but the information is not readily available and would be costly to collect. �` Involve Parks Division and neighborhood in design, modification and use decisions for sewer easements, ponding areas, and other open space related to sewerage and watershed management. Commission response: Parks (Forestry secrion) is involved with the Public Works Department in planning the planting done for sewer and street projects. Involving neighborhoods more in these decisions is a good idea. * Incorporate concepts contained in the Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Plan, including: - Use of native species in plantings. - Natural border grasses and plantings on Phalen lakeshore and (apply to) other pazk areas. - Runoff control. 11 a� �-�as Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 - Use of more environmentally-friendly plantings in general, rather than "flat mow" grooming of all pazk areas. Commission response: Add a new policy 6. under Objective I, which addresses rratural resource protection, as follows: 6. Faplore use of the foZlowinQ techniques, where practical, to Dreserve the Citv's natural resources: a. Use of native sDecies in �lantings;_ b. Use of natural border grasses and olantings alonq shorelirtes: c. Control of chemical runoff into Donds, lakes, streams, and rivers: and d. Avoidance of�lat mow" �roomin�in �ark areas where a more natural look is approDriate. District 10 Communitv Council Since District 10's comments are fairly lengthy and detailed, the Parks Commission response will follow each point in italics and parentheses. In most cases, the Commission agrees with the spizit of the comments but has suggested alternate wording that is more commonly understood. Parks Plan Overview Shapin¢ Citv Character * p. 7, Objective 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space and �a� environmental resources. Environmental resources consist of natural and cultural features and areas. (7yce Commission prefers the term "natural resources"be left, as is, in all cases. The terna "natural resources" is better understood by more people. "Environment" is a broad term, implying inclusion of all things natural and built. The term "cultural" is also somewhat broad and difficult to defne. The definition of "natural resources ", according to the State of Minnesota's Environmental Rights Law, II6B.02, includes histaric, scenic, and aesthetic resources as well as those resources of land, water, air, plants, animals, etc. This seems like a more appropriate definition given the focus of the policies under this objective.) Saint PauPs open space and natural resources provide many benefits. Undeveloped "natural" azeas help shape and soften the built environment, provide habitat for plants and wildlife, and improve the overall environmental qualiry of the city. However, the amount of open space in the city is limited, and both it and environmental resources aze wlnerable to increasing development pressure and gel�iea degradation. (Don't use "environmental resources ", but "deeradation" is better than 'pollution ".) While much of our remaining open space is in public ownership, park designation does not necessarily protect ege�-sflase it nor � environmental resources. (Simplify sentence; stop after "does not necessarilv orotect it".J The Division is continuously confronted with demands to expand recreational opportunities and increase access to developed and undeveloped parkland. (Change agreed to earlier under HPC comments.) Consequently, the City's open space and � environmental resources (keep "natural ") may become wlnerable to unwarranted use and degradation. A conscious effort must be taken to ensure their protection and preservation for enjoyment by future 12 ��-�� Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council June 12. 1996 generations, especiallv before future developmenttakes place. (Disagree, unnecessary quatifzer.) Because neither ecological systems nor culturai fearures aze � confined to the city's boundaries, protection and preservation efforts must be coordinated at a�egies� lazeer level. (Disagree, leave sentence as is.) Policies: (p. '� 1. Manage the City's park and recreation system to ensure: a. Preservation and restoration of environtnental resources; (replace "environmental" with "natural b. Management of all pazkland and open space in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner; c. Opportunities for all citizens to enjoy, appreciate, and understand the Ciry's �a� environmental areas. (Leave "natural".) 2. Provide leadership and coordination with federal, state, regional and local authorities to: a. Complete and maintain an inventorv of environmental resources, includin¢ site analysis and evaluation of inteeritv and sienificance. Data wIll be inteeiated with state and federai inventories, evaluations and desienations, and coordinated with the Metro Region Forest Resource Mana¢ement Plan and the Citv's Le¢islative Code uertainin¢ to herita¢e nreservation. (A slightly different version of the first sentence, to do an inventory of natural and historic resources, was agreed to as part of the HPC comments. Delete the last sentence because it is too detailed,• coordination is implied in the policy as written.) � b. Develop management and protection strategies for endangered species and or sensitive habitats and cultural resources; (no longer needed,• "and historicallv important structures and features" was added in the HPC comments abave) �: c. Provide and coordinate adequate and consistent enforcement of regulations to protect cultural resources, water quality, wetlands, native habitats, a� the river corridor and other surroundine environs. (changes no longer needed, for reasons cited above.) d. Pursue the possibilitv of restoring or reconstructine wetlands within nack and open s�ace areas. (Agree with the addirion of d.) 3. Pursue opportunities and partnerships to acquire land specifically for open space and �a�x�a� environmental (disagree) resource protection according to anv of (agree) the following criteria: a. Areas containing species included on the State or Federal list of endangered or threatened species; b. Areas representing significant landforms, native plant communities, eF sensitive habitat, or cultural xesources; c.... (As stated above, the Commission believes "natural " resources is a better understood term than "environmental" or "cultural resources".) 13 �t� -��s Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 4. Support and strengthen citywide tree preservation and reforestation efforts. a. Establish a Tree Advisorv Boazd to hel�oversee the planning and mana¢ement of the local communitv forest. (The City Council is cunently the Ciry's officially designated "Tree Advisory Board". Action step 6 on p. 27, to review ancl revise the tree protection ordinance, should be expanded to add "and zdentify methods of improving citizen participation in tree management issues ".) * p. 12, Objective 4: Fulfill pazk development priorities. The park system is continually being developed, � redeveloped, ureserved and rehabilitated. ('preserved" is out of contert with what's covered here, "rehabilitated" is fzne) Many projects are necessary to ensure that ep onle (agree) have adequate access to qualitv oazk and (agree) recreational opporiunities. Othezs axe necessary to modemize pazk facilities and ensure that they meet current codes. Park development priorities change through the yeazs as environmental and (agree) recreational demands and needs change and the Division must continue to expiore opportunities to meet these needs. Howevei, there aie some projects that cucrently stand out because of their magnitude and potential impact on the entire City reeion. (make it "citv and re i�) To realize these projects, they must become the priniary focus of park development efforts and resources in the coming years. Policies: 11. In the Regionai Parks and Open Space System, ttte City will give priority to all of the following (map) after environmental resource inventories have been comoleted (see Objective 1, Policy 2a.). (Disagree, unnecessary quctlifzer.) a. Completion of the Como Park Master Plan oals and renovation; (Here the Commission suggests "Completion of renovation and improvement of Como Park. Como Zoo. and Como conservatorv. " This gets away from a specific reference to the master plan, which has been a source of disagreement.) b. Completion of plans to unprove the riverfront (see Obj. 2, policy 7); c. Development of recreational trails (see Obj. 3). * p. 15, Objective 5: Enhance the City and its neighborhoods. Parks and recreation facilities enhance the quality of the City and its neighborhoods. ...In addition, the value of pazks as neighborhood amenities is directly related to how safe they are perceived to be and how attractive they appear. However, neighborhood concezns about perceived negative impacts, such as when a recreational trail is proposed adjacent to private property, need to be balanced by the recreational needs of the eCiry -°°'a��'° °° °�°'�^'� re�ion. (Suggest "the clty and re i�on ".) The City must continue to work to foster appropriate design, mainTenance, and communiry involvement to ensuce patks enhauce neighborhoods as well as serve ^"•^^��-..-.�-ae�� the broader nublia (Suggest making it, "serve the broader public's recreational needs ".) fl4 �� I� � Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council June 12, 1996 Policies: 14. Provide site and facility design, rehabIlitation, and retro-fitting that: a. Meets or exceeds accepted standards for safety, security, durability, maintenance and accessibility; b. Meets user needs for support facilities such as parking, transportation, (Suggest "circulation and parking".) lighting, drinking water, restrooms, signage; c. Respects and e�e�s ureserves the natural and historic environment; d. Respects and enhances (Suggest delering "and enhances" from both c. and d.) neighborhood identiry; e. Minimizes unpact on surrounding neighborhoods. 17. Involve neighborhood residents, park users, and community groups in nlanning, (agree) development, programming, and maintenance of parks. (see Obj. 10, policy 36) * p. 21, Objective 10: Foster opportunities for on-going communiry and citizen involvement and feedback. Involving citizens in decisions regazding park lp anning, (agree) development, operations, and maintenance gives them a sense of ownership, responsibility, and control. Residents play an important rofe in helping staff identify park and recreation needs specific to their neighborhood. In 1990 the City took a significant step in providing a forum for citizen involvement in the lp annine, (agree) management, operations, and development of the pazk and recreation system by establishing the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission. �et�tix�ing Exuanding support for citizen participation (Continuing is a better word tharz expanding here; however, techniques for better supporting citizen participation need to be explored.) must be provided to ensure thei� that (agree} involvement is meaningful and effective and has a clear nnpact on the quality of park and recreation services. Policies: 36. Involve all constituents (residents, park users, interest groups) in setting balanced priorities for plannine, develonment• programming, maintenance, use of facilities, and other park and recreation matters. (agree) a. Use of the Citv's Eazly Notification System Policy and Procedure will be used. b. All nearby district councils will be invited in the site ieview process from its beeinnine. c. Detailed minutes of all Parks and Recreation Commission and committee meetines will be available. (Proposed a., b., and c.are too detailed for inclusion in the policies. To accomplish the intent, suggest adding an action step under "Communicakons and Conrdination" on p. 31 stating, "Review and imnrove strate2ies for notifvinQ and involvin2 constituents in setting balanced Driorities for planninQ. development, programminz, maintenance, use ot'facilities. and other oark and recreation-related matters. (36)) 15 °i�'�°z's Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 Conclusion The Pazks and Recreation Commission approved these recommendations at its June 12, 1996 meeting by a»na�imous vote. The public testimony and the Commission's responses will appeaz on the Ciry Council's July 10 agenda for consideration. The Ciry Council is requested to adopt the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan, as amended, replacing the elcisting 1985 plan as a chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan. If you have any questions about these materials before the 7uly lOth meeting, please feel free to call Robert Piram, Director, Parks and Recieation Division (266-6404), or ponna Drummond of the Planning Division staff (266-6556). cc: Mayor Nomt Coleman Robert Piram, Superintendent, Parks and Recreation Division Ken Ford, Planning Adminisuator Donna Dnimmond, Planning Division Public Hearing Testifiers 16 PLANNiNG COMMISSION CTTY OF SAIN"T PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor DATE: June 9, 1995 TO: FROM: RE: Introduction Pazks and Recreation Commission Planning Cortunission �avu1 McDonell, Chair I100 Ciry Hal[ Annes 2J A'est Fourth Street Saini Pau(, MN S.i102 °1�-3�.s Telephone: 6I b266-656i Facaimide: bT2-?28-3314 Planning Commission Recommendation on Draft Parks and Recreation Plan The St. Paul Parks and Recreation Commission has released a draft Parks and Recreation Plan for public review and comment. It held a public hearing on Wed., May 17, and will accept written comments through June 13. The Parks Commission is charged with recommending the proposed parks and recreation element of the City's comprehensive plan. The Planning Commission is charged with reviewing the proposed plan and making a recommendation with respect to the relationship of the plan to the overall comprehensive plan and capital allocation policy of the City. The Planning Commission may also comment on any other planning considerations. This memo contains comments that the Planning Commission wishes to submit to the Parks Commission as part of this review process. These comments were approved by a resolution of the Planning Commission at its meeting on 3une 9, 1995. Issues In reviewing the plan, the Planning Commission identified the following issues on which it wishes to comment: Maps: both total number, and coordination of the trail map with the Tzansportation Plan bike route map. 2. � 1995-1996 Action Plan: lack of specificity for some action steps. Policy on periodic updating of the plan. Integxation of paxks planning with other city development inStiatives. Mississippi River: enhanced recognition of the importance of the river and the opportunities it represents. These five issues are discussed below. St. Paul Parks and Recreation Commission June 9, 1995 � The following maps need to be included to better illustrate certain plan recommendations: 1) 2) ����� Major River Access Points and Views, including tributary creeks and bluff edges (to illustrate Objective 2, policies 5, 6, and 7 on physical and visual access to the Mississippi River.); Regional Parks and Open Space Priorities (to illustrate Obj. 4, Policy 11, which identifies Como Park, the riverfront, and recreational trails as regional priorities); 3) Local Parks and Recreatiun System Priorities (to illustrate Obj. 4, Policy 12, which identifies as local priorities improvements to Highland Park, Swede Hollow, and certain recreation centers, and provision of year-round recreational facilities); and The policies identified above refer to actions such as "preservation and enhancement of significant river and downtown skyline views wherever possible", "completion of plans to improve the riverfront", and "upgrading identified Neighborhoods in Transition Centers". Without maps, readers of the plan can only guess what these refer to. Also readers who are unfamiliar with the city may not know where Como or Swede Hollow Parks are located, for example. 4) Inventory maps in the appendix. The appendix now contains a map and chart showing recreation center locations and facilities. There also needs to be a map or maps showing all parkland in the city by type (regional, city, neighborhood level parks, ornamental spaces, parkways), and specialized recreation Facilities (ballfields, swimitiing pools, golf courses, etc.). This kind of an inventory map was included in the 1985 Parks Plan. Trail System map (p. 9). This map needs to be coordinated with the Bike Route Map in the Transportation Policy Plan, Page II-55. In particular, the plan policies and map should identify and give special prioriry to development of trails that improve the three principal recreational bike routes in St. Paul: 1) Saint Paul Grand Round Loop; 2) Mississippi River Trail; and 3) the Capitol Route, which are de£ined on the Transportation Policy Plan map. Care should be given to making sure the terminology and perhaps even the graphic symbols used are the same, since both the Parks and Transportation Policy plans are part of the same Comprehensive Plan. 1995-1996 Action Plan The specificity and level of detail among the action steps varies somewhat. A few of the action steps almost read like policies; it is unclear what the specific action to be taken will be. For example, step 21 for 1995 states that Parks staff will "involve the communiry in a systematic way in setting program and service related priorities in selected programs". How will this be done? Overall, the action steps should be fairly specific and cleaz as to what exactly will be done. 2 St. Paul Pazks and Recreation Commission June 9, 1995 Policv on Periodic Uudating of Plan �����'� The introduction to the 1995-1996 Action Plan indicates thatthe action plan will be updated by staff biannually and presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission for review and approval. At this same time, there should be an assessment of the overall plan, to detemune if any portions of plan need updating. Revisions can be made, if necessary, and the plan can be "recertified". In this way, the plan can be kept more current, and it may eliminate the need for another major rewriting of the plan in five or ten yeazs. To accomplish this, the following language changes are suggested: Add a policy to Objective I5: Improve management of resources.: 54. Review, and revise if necessar�plan objectives and oolicies on a biannual basis. when a new two vear action plan is develoDed, and recertifv the Dlan as the current aolicv of the Cit� Add language to the second paragraph of the Implementation section: The intent of the action plan is to provide a realistic work plan that will help focus the work of the Parks and Recreation Division over the next two years. The action plan, alone with anv necessarv chanpes to the plan's objectives and olicies, will be updated by the staff biannually, presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission for review and approval, and adopted by the City Council. Inteeration of Parks Plannin¢ with Other Initiatives The City is involved in many other initiatives that affect the physical developmern of Saint Paul, and represent opportunities to add to or enhance the city's open space and natural resources. For example, the Phalen Village Small Area Plan calls for the restoration of Ames Lake and surrounding wetlands on the site of the current Phalen Shopping Center. The restored natural landscape would become a neighboxhood amenity that "enhances suriounding pioperty values and helps attract quality commercial and residential development, provides stormwater cleansing, provides wildlife habitat, and becomes part of the Phalen Chain of Lakes bird flyway". A second example would be the redevelopment of industrial lands within the Phalen Corridor. The City should find ways to encouiage design and development that creates green spaces and coxridoxs within these new developments that can be enjoyed by employees and neighborhood residents alike. A new policy should be added under Objective 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space and natural resources., as follows: 4. The City will take advantage of opportunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the citv's open space and natural resources, without aclding develooed park land that will reguire addirioruzl public main�enance or operatin�penses. St. Paul Parks and Recreation Commission June 9, 1995 Mississinpi River ��,� � The Pazks Plan should give greater emphasis to the River and the opportunities it represents for the city, recognizing the current interest in the riverfront and work that is underway by the Planning Commission's Central River Valley Development Framework Task Force. The Planning Commission suggests the following revisions to the plan that would reflect this new focus (wording from the plan is in italics, and additions are underlined): Page 2: Add a Goal: E�hasis on the Mississinni River Vallev and its Great River Park as one of the cilv's kev forrruitive elements. Several vears aeo, architect Ben Thomoson introduced Saint Paul to the concept o�the "Great River Park. " encoura�in2 new developnzent alon2 the river to be sited in a heavilZ-forested settinn. More recently, the Universitv of Minnesota's Desip,n Center for American Urban Lundscape has raised the citv's awareness of the imvortance of the Mississappi River as a uni ine element for Saint Paul's everr�oDVOrtunitv, be it directiv at the river's edze or throuzh Dublic and private investment in each of our neiQhborhoods, we must inte¢rate the MississipDi River Valle�into our community and our cammunitLinto the river vallev. In a mvriad of wctys, each of our neiQhborhoods is connected to the river,- our challenze is to reveal and enhance those connections. Page 4: Strategy: Shaping City Character This strategy recogniZes that parks, parkways and natural features lend form, character and identity which enhance the City and its neighborhoods. Perhaps the greatest of these is the Mississippi River and river vallev. It also recognizes that the existing systern of parks, parkways and natural resources, each at somepoint connectinv to the MississipDi River, provides a strong framework to build on. 7he policies in this strategy focus on preservation, maintenance and development of the park and recreation system, and the City's natural resources and their connection to the MississapDi River Vallev. Page 5: Add to Finding #8: 8. The Mississippi River contributes 29 miles of riverfront shoreline to Saint Paul. This represents the longest stretch of riverfront of any municipality in the metropolitan area and is St. Paul Parks and Recreation Commission Jmme 9, 1995 ° one of the City's most signifzcant amenities and resources. Considerable amounts of shoreline are of public parkZand providing opportunities for river access. There are also 57 miles of bZ�Qes within the cztv, 30 of which are directl�nv the river. I,00kinQ at the Zarger MississiDDi River Vallev, fullv one-third of the citv, or approximatelv I8 square miles. is Zocated within the Mississ�pi River Valley. Obviouslv, the MississipDi River has a tremendous impact on the toDOeraphy and phvsical Qeo ra hv of Saint Paul, and is a maior form-giving element for the citv. Page 8: Objecrive 2: Expand physical and visual access to the River. The Mississippi River is Saint PauPs foremost natural, cultural and recreational resource. People enjoy its picturesque quality and the broad vistas it affords. People want to interact with it directly - to touch it, to explore its banks and currents. While visual access to the river is generally good from public parks and bluff top vantage points, physical access to the river is more limited, particularly in the downtown area but also in several neiehborhoods where two- or three-block eaps keeD �eo�le om ettinp to the river. Increasing downtown riverfrant access has been consistently identifzed as a priority in the City's extensive planning efforts for riverfi redevelopment and should continue to be pursued. Qpportunities for connecting each of the Citv's neighborhoods to the river vallev should also be exalored. Add to Policy #7: 7. The City will strengthen downtown and neighborhood connections to the River through: a. b. c. d. e. Page 9: Completion of riverfront projects which improve access to the River (see Obj. 4, policy 11); Preservation and enhancement of signifzcant river and downtown skyline views wherever possible; Limitatfons on building heights and setback encroachmentin areas that would obstruct public access and views ta the River; Identification and reinforcement of "river valley boulevards " such as Wheelock Parkwav and Fart Road/W. 7th Street as extensions of the Mississipvi River 1/allev into neip,hborhoods; and RebuildinQ of the river's tributnry vallevs. such as the Phalen Corridor economic develooment and wetland restoration proiects. Objective 3: Develap park and open space connections. Park and open space connections provide the means for moving between parks, moving within parks, and getting to parks, in a safe, convenient and enjoyable manner. While connections usually take the St. Paul Pazks and Recreation Commission June 9. 1995 ��� form of trails, Zinear parks or parkways, sidewalks and streets providing access to parks through neighborhoods are also imponant connections. As such, it is essential to coordinate and integrate our trails and parkways with the City's network of sidewalks and streets to provide continuous, convenient and safe access to, between and within parks. One of the most im�ortant connections vet to be made is between our nei�hborhoods and the Mississippi River [�allev. Add to Policy #8: 8. The Ciry will pursue opportunities to expand its recreational trail system and give priority to development of trails which: a. Provide connections between and within the City's parks, trails in adjacent municipalities, and the Regional trail system; b. Coordinate with and support the network of on-street bicycle paths and sidewalks; c. Utilize existing parkways and/or public-owned property; d. Reveal and enhance connections between the citv's nei¢hborhoods and the Mississippi River T�allev (e.g Phalen Corridor. Shepard Road and Avd Mill Roadl Page 11: Objective 5: Enhance the City arut its neighborhoods. Add a policy: 1 S. Maintain, enhance and inteQrate the Dhvsical characteristics that make Saint Paul a distinctive city, foremost of which is the presence of the MississivDi River Vallev. by a. usine the phvsical resources of the river valley to reinforce the citv's form and structure b. using the river's phvsical ¢eoQraphv to bridee barriers between nei¢hborhoods c. improvin2 connections between the river vallev and our neighborhoods so that each neinhborhood has a ip ece o�this wonderful natural, cultural and recreational resource d. coordinarine public proiects that have both a river valley and neiQhborhood dimension (e.e. the Wabashcz Bridee should be inte¢rated with all of the othe�arts and s stems it enea2es, such as Wabasha Street rehabilitarion. the Wabasha 5tairs public art project, the West Side Risingfrom the River Dublic art project. Concord Street lizhtinz, the reforestation of the river valley. Naw Island landscapinQ, etc.. Page 13: Strategy: Building Communiry Add to the opening paragraph: St. Paul Parks and Recreation Commission June 9, 1995 0��. Perhaps more than arcy other communitv resource the MississipDi River Vallev and its Great River Park can become our communitv at� herin� olace It is where this citv beQan and increasinQZv where peovle want to return to. The success of recent activities along the riverfi'ont (Chautauaua the river ba�e concert, the reforestation project, etc.) illustrates how the river can be a place for the mer�g of human and natural activities and habitats. Page 15: Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and programming that contributes to stable neighborhoods. Add two policies: 29. Provide orientation to and promote vublic awareness of the natural and cultural resources � the Mississi�pi River Pallev. Alreadv-existing community_ athering places (a local coffee shoD. bike trail head. etc. ) can be a dissemination �oint for this information. 30. Promote activities and events that strenethen Saint Paul's identitv as a river valle�citv with imDOrtant tributar�neiQhborhoods. Conclusion The Planning Commission appreciates this opportuniry to comment on the Parks Commission's draft plan. If you have any questions about these comments, please direct them to Donna Drummond of the Planning Division staff at 266-6556. Attachment. cc: Ken Ford, Larry Soderholm, Lucy Thompson, Allan Torstenson, Planning Division Bob Piram, Judy Bazr, Mike Hahm, Parks and Recxeation Division Jill Danner, Chair, Parks and Recreation Comitiission city of saint paul planning commission resol�tion file number 95-48 �te June 9, 1995 °l�-3 a5 DRAFT PA.RKS AND RECREATION PLAN: REV�W AND COMI��NT VJHEREAS, the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission has released a draft Parks and Recreation Plan for public review; and WHEREAS, the new plan was undertaken at the request of the Parks Comnunission, to update the existing plan that was adopted in 1985; and WHEREAS, the plan was developed by a task force appointed by the Parks Commission, and included two Plamiing Commission representatives; and WHEREAS, according to the City's Administrative Code, the Parks Commission is charged with recommending the proposed parks and recreauon element of the City's comprehensive plan, and the Plamung Commission is charged with reviewing the proposed plan and making recommendations with respect to the relationship of the plan to the overall comprehensive plan and capital allocation policy of the Ciry, and making comments on any other planning considerations; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has reviewed the draft plan, and has included its comments in a memo to the Parks Commission dated 7une 9, 1995; NOW, TAEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Commission approves the comments included in the above referenced memo, and requests that the planning administrator forward these comments to the Parks and Recreation Commission for its consideration. moved by Mac�dox seconded by in favor �na°Tm°us against � q�-3�5 Saint � . Pa�� _ Parks and Recreation Commission 300 C'iry Hall Annex, 25 W. 4th Sntet, Saint Paul, MN 55102 -- 612R66-6400 February 1, 1995 Mayor Norm Coleman 390 Ciry Hall Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 Deaz Mayar Coleman: The Parks and Recreation Commission has recommended the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan to you and the City Council far final adoption as a chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan. A memo from the Commission, detailing our recommendations, and a copy of the plan are attached. The Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan was developed by a task force that worked for over two years, using focus groups, interviews, and workshops to ensure the plan represented what St. Paul residents want for their parks and recreation system. The new plan focuses on four goals: 1) xespons3ve park and recreation services; 2) safe, attractive, and accessible park and recreation facilities; 3) parks which enhance neighborhood stability and cohesiveness; and 4) balanced park development. In achieving these goals, the plan also recognizes that we face several challenges. These include: 1) an increasingly diverse populauon; 2) higher expectations of public service; 3) limited physical expansion of the park and recreation system; and 4) budget lunitations and potential reductions. In requesting this new plan, the Parks and Recreation Commission was interested in addressing a broader range of issues than those covered in the 1985 plan, which focused on delivery of recreauonal services. I feel that this plan will provide a comprehensive framework for meeting the needs, challenges, and opportunities confronting our parks and recreation system. I join the Parks and Recreation Commission in urging you to transmit the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan to the City Council with your recommendation for its adoption. Sincerely, � �G�� 7i11 Danner Chair Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commissioners: Jill Danner, Chauperson; Terrence Huntrods, Vice-Chairperson David Goodlow, Kenneth Mauer, Blia Moua, John O'Halloran, Carol Osip, Phil Ravitzky, Karen Skwira �G• Irtterdepartmerrtal Memorandum CITY OF SAINT PAUL DATE: February 2�, 1946 TO: Mayor Norm Coleman �� FROM: Robert Piram, D'uector, Parks and Recreati� Ken Ford, Planning Administrator � RE: The Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan The Saint Paul Administrative Code requires that whenever a Parks and Recreation Commission or Planning Commission recommendation is transmitted to the Mayor, the Parks and Recrearion Division and Planning Division staff also send along their recommendations. Attached is the Parks and Recreation Commission's transmittal of a new Saint Pnul Parks and �r Recreation Plan, and their request that you, in turn, transmit it to the CiTy Council with your recommendation that it be adopted as a chapter of the Saint Paul Comprehensive Ptan. Part of the transmittai packet is the recommendation of the Planning Commission, as required by the Administrative Code. Puks and Recreation Division and Planning Division staff worked closely with a community task force cailed together by the Pazks and Recreation Commission to develop this new plan, which will replace the existing 1985 plan chapter in the City's Comprehensive Plan. We are confident that this new plan will provide a strong policy framework to meet the challenges and opportunities the pazks and recreation system faces in the years ahead. The plan's three major strategies also include elements that directly support some of your major initiatives. These aze highlighted below: Shaping City Character - emphasizes the importance of the city's open space and natural resources, including the Mississippi River, in defining the ciTy's character and identity. Building Community - recognizes the role of pazks and recreation facilities as neighborhood focal points for community activity and life. These can be important building biocks in a comprehensive communiTy development strategy. Innovative Focusing of Resources - recognizes that budgets are limited and resources must be carefully managed, supporting your interest in making sure government uses taxpayer dollars efficienfly and wisely. We }oin the Parks and Recreation Commission in recommending that you transmit the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan to the City Council with your endorsement. A transmittal letter is included in this packet for your signature. We would be happy to meet with you to review the particulars of the plan. To schedule a briefing, or if you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to call Bob Piram (266-6404), Ken Ford (266-6577), or ponna Drummond of the Planning Division (266-6556). � �','�`"Y` - � � � 131�� Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan Amendment New Policy Page 16. :��-�._��-� ,l � 9G-3as � ./'✓` �.y�� .�...A.....1.. -0P � Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan Amendment Policy #45 Page 24. Add the underlined language ��-��.�.� - �-i ! 3 I � � �f � -� °�.5 45. Pursue opportunities to secure federal, state, and private resources (e.q, grants, partnerships) when and where possible to a. b. c . d. Ensure free access to programs and facilities. Provide the organizational capacity to change service delivery, including the provision of new services. Build, operate and maintain facilities; and Expand services beyond the general fund budget, (e.g. specialist contracts, community education) • - •-�' - - _- -�_- . -_ .. .�. . .- . - - • \ Y�yN � � !f/ ! �� �— ° I G -�aS Proposed Amendment to Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan 4/3/96 The new policy suggested below (to foliow Policy 26 on p. 19) would encourage the City to be open to new, emerging recreation trends, such as skateboarding, that will better meet the recreation needs of St. Paul residents. new 27. Consider �rovidinE facilities or oroerammina for alternative emerein� recreation trends. �amcularlv those that meet the recreational needs of youth (such as skateboardmel �IG -�� Councilmember Mike Hazris May 1, 1996 Proposed Amendments to Parks and Recreation Plan Resolution 96-325 1. Objective 1 (p. � --Add under Policy 2 c. Open a cleaner and more friendly river to swiinmers and other recreational users. 2. Objective 1 (p. � under Policy 5 --Delete the last sentence. Objective 2 (p. 8) --Add under Policy 6 "river&ont character, including, but not limited to, opening the river&ont to more personal recreation activities like swimming, fishing and canoeing." 4. Objective 4 (p. 12) --Add under Policy 12 g. Review eacisting demographic and economic data for possible additions to identified Neighborhood in Transition Centers. Objective 8 (p. 19) --Add under Policy 26 d. Maxinuzing our fixed assets to keep recreation centers open 7 days a week. (Could also be under Objecrive 12) 6. Objective 10 (p. 21) --Under policy 36 after the phrase "use of facilities," add "physical enhancement or development of facilities and/or open spaces," --Add under policy 36 the following sentence "Site plans for facility improvements will be submitted to the Platuring Commission and City Council for review and approval." IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 7. Design and Development (p. 28) Add statement "Modify city ordinances so that Parks and Recreation proposals for physical enhancements of facilities and/or open spaces that require a site plan be reviewed by the Plazining Commission and City Council. 8. Outreach, Awazeness, and Promotion (p. 29) --amend number 19 to read: `Bxplore the possibility of moving Cafesjian's Cazousel to Como Pazk." �� ��� 9. Outreach, Awareness, and Promotion (p.29) --In response to Objective ? policy 28 (p. 19), Objective 12 policy 43 (p.23) and Finding 6(page 23) add item "Compile an inventory of all the joint use agreements that Pazks and Recreafion has with various schools, universities and other institutions in order to publicize the opportLwities for the pazks users. Furthermore, in light of recent facility expansions by the St. Paul School District, Pazks and Recreation needs to clarify the legal status of those agreements:' 10. Not sure of proper location: --Include city participation in the Winter Carnival and a regulazly scheduled Ice Castle (i.e. every five yeazs). q�_3as Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan - Public Hearing Testimony 4/3/96 and 5/1/96 Packet includes comments/suggested changes from: Council President Thune Councilmember Rettman District 2 Community Council District 10 Community Council °lG -sa. ; - ��/ �� � Proposed Ainendtnent to Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan 4/3/96 The new policy suggested below (to follow Policy 26 on p. 19) would encourage the City to be open to ner,v, emerging recreation trends, such as skateboarding, that will better meet [he recreation needs of St. Paul residents. new 27. Consider orovidine facilities or oroQrammine for alternative emereinQ recreatton trends particularlv those that meet the recreational needs o�outh fsuch as sl.ateboardm2l ����� - �13in�- Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan Amendment New Policy Page 16. Amendment• � � � G�.��S � 1''" t?)� �L$�j ,r.�Ar.r.lv ;f �- . � � � • • . 11 � • ' ' / _ _ ' � . � ' � - • • ! . � . ' I l . � ' . ! • - • - • q ,�, — � e'�S �e.�rr�wr� — � � 3 1`�{� Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan Amendment Policy #45 Page 24. Add the underlined language 45. Pursue opportunities to secure federal, state, and private resources (e.g. grants, partnerships) when and where possible to a. Ensure free access to programs and facilities. b. Provide the organizational capacity to change service delivery, including the provision of new services. c. Build, operate and maintain facilities; and d. Expand services beyond the general fund budget, (e.g. specialist contracts, community education) � • • - • � � • • . 11. • ' . � . ! • ' y ' • � • • ' • ' � ' ' ' � . ' • - . • � � - ' ' 1 _ ' , • ' " ' a`-�asr Specific lana age channes suggested - District 2 Parl� and Recreatiun Pl:ui April 29, 1996 Qn Y. 5 nezd to add an item recoenizina nun-Dir•ision managed prop2r[ies as an�sset. Possible languane - In lddition St Paul residen's benzfit from the use of recrea'ional and open space manaaed bvQtt�e��tstie�._�.�_e�e i�LClude Ram�eX C�m��'at��. �Vate e artme�t o��pace. Public R'orkG p�ndin� �id driinaee are�s wd prn�ate recreation lancLs. Un P. 12, add an itzm: Policy 12 g CoorcIinat2 witii PubIic R%orks DN�R and Ramser- Washin�ton Waterched District in the Plralea/Ames Lake wedand re�t�ration project (adii t� map, paae 14) On P. 12, amend as follu�vs; 13. Pursua uypui'ttuiities and joint-use partnersfups to acquire or provide access to land for parks. open space. or ane� recrearion development accord'uzg to the fOIlOWIIla CriYeI73� On P. 23, add an item: 17 Work with Public Works DI�'R Ramsev-Washineton R'atershed District and the Universitv of Minnesota to develop plans for the PhaleniAmes Lake wetland restoration. (12j Unresolved issues: Upd2tilla Nei�hUorhoods in Transition plan - in �eneral, but specifically as it relates to Hazel Park and Sackett. Perhaps this shouid be done �u an ameucLnent to that plari rather than fit into his one? Incorporation of ihe concepts contained in Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Ylan. Includine: --Use of native species in plantinns. --Natural border grasses and plantings on Phalen lakeshore and other park ares. --Runoff control. --Role of Yarks Division in puUlic education. --Use of more environmentally-friendly plantings in general, rather than "flat mow." g'ooming of all park areas. L _�r��� �Y� �� �!L-�a .. � District IO - Como Community Council - ' Dear Councilmembers, ' � Thank yo� for alIowinL District �10 to make a thoron�h review of the Pazks and Recreauon Division Compreheusive Ptan and offer our su�gesdons for a stron�er plan. As you know, the residents of the Como Pazk neighborhood fiave a strong inferest in issues that affect the future of Como Pazk: As well we shaze the Iazger goal of maintaining a healthy parks. and recreauon system that meets the varied. needs of our city. ' We were delighted to see in this ptan a recognition of the. pubtic's desire fot an added emphasis on preservation of the natural resources of the park system. Rre also feel ihat the pvblic, and certainly our community, desires reco�ition of tl�e value of azeas that have cultural or historicai value as well. The actions of the Sain[ Paut Heritaoe Preservation Coaunission, the establishment of the Saint Paul Historic Streets Task Force and indeed, the paasing of a resoluuon by the Pazks Comuussion backing a study of onr iustoric resources a11 illustrate �ater concem for preservin� and renewing sites and azeas of culturat signifr- cance.' • District # 10 offers by w ay of tfiese chanaes to t6e lan�uage of the pIan an opportunity to make these commitunents explicit ia a document tfiat mast not be vague if it is to be useful or effecflve. .The requests that wa aze making fall into four azeas: ' i) 2} 3) 4) ihat language conceming the preservation, protection, and regeneration of the city's open space and natmaf resources be expanded to include resources of iristoricai or cuttural value; the w6ote of the resonrce base bein� termed it's "environmental resources." strengthening the Iangaage requiring the. Pazks and Recreatiori Division to include the District Councils in settzng planning and dev'elopment priorities and requiring timely notification and consultaGon with t(�e District Councils regarding acGons that we wou]d reasoa ably be expected to have an interestin. �� comple6on and maintenaqce of an inventory, using estabiished standazds, of the" environmen fal resaucces" within the property ander Puks and RecreaHon Division's control. � alter language referring to comp]eUOn of 3he Como Park Master Plari to pursaeing satis- , facrion of the Como Pazk Master Pian goais. _ T6e " goals" of the Master Plan aze expIic- idy stated within the Master Plan documeni itself and accomplish the task of describing what the Pazks and Recreation Division hopes to accomplish for the pazk. What the _ "goats" do not do is prescribe spec�c remedies for.these issues. Some of the specific projects in the plan do not have the support of the_ community and as such sbould not be " adopted as policy. We have not heazd similaz objections to the goals of the plan and feel ihaY the door must be kept open for consideraiion of altetna6ve approaches. Neazly fifteen yeazs have passed since the adoption of this plan and it is not surpris ing to see prioriues.of the community and the Ciry shift as is evidenced by people's interest ia preservation of the natural and culturai resou�es. We tl�ank you for your thoughtful consideration of our suggestions. and look forward to providing � whatever exptanation or ciarification you request. SincereIy, J , �� ,� ,_ � Tom Kelly, Chair � r�,....., o.,.L r....,.,,:,.ee n - � ` _� ° Z� DISTRICT 10 COMO COMMUNITY COUNCI.L'S. � SUGGESTED LANGUAGE FOIZ INCLUSION WITH THE SAINT PAUL PARKS AND RECREA3'ION PLAN A CHAPTER OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN . APRIL 25, 1996 � DENNIS O'ROURKE , COUNCIL PRESIDENT ToM_KELLY _ • . ' . .. DISTRICT 10 COMO.PARK COMMITi'EE CHAIR ,_ . . " . THiS DOCUMENT wAS PZiII�TED ON RECYCLED PAPER . ' � � �' 1 .: . ��-� ��" . Sugges�ed I;anguage Ckanges for following areas. ;°: � Parks Overview : : - . Sha�ng Cif�Character , _ � � Obj:1c Encourage protection; preservation, and� regeneration of the city's open space and�nvironmental resources. Obj. 4: Fulfill_ park_development priorities: . � Obj: 5: Enhance the City and its neighborhoods. • Buildin�Communitv � ' Obj. 10: Foster opporEunities for on-going community arid citizen involvemerit and feedback. ' - . � . Parks and Recreation Plan - � . . Suggested L:anguage from District 10 Como Communiry Council • April 25,1996 ' �. _1-' Objective ?: Encourage protection, preservation, kizd regeneration of tke cify's opetz sj�kce andx�ttrn�F envirotta�:ental resources � Saint Paul's open space and� environmental resources pxovide many benefits. Environmental resources consist of natural and cultural features and � areas. Undeveloped "natural" areas help shape and soften the built environment, provide habitat for plants and.wildlife, and improve the overall environmental quality of the Ci.ty. However, the amount of open space in the City is limited� and both it and environmental resources are uulnerable to increasing development pressures and�ierrdegradation. While much of our remaining open_space is . in public ownership, park designation does not necessarily protect e�ert-�s�aEeit nor a-x�� environmenEal resources. The Division is continuously confronted with demands to expand recreational opportuniEies and increase access fo develo�ed and undeveloped parkland. Consequently, the City's open space and-rrattxa� environmenEal resources may become vulnerable to unwarranted use and degradation. A conscious effort must be Eaken to ensure Eheir protection and preservation for enjoyment by future generations e�eciall� before future development takes�lace, Becau"se neiEher ecological systems nor cultural features � are -aet confined fo the City's boundaries, protection and .preservation efforts "must be coordinated at a-regie�r�ia�r er ledel. Policies: - 1, Manage the City's park and recreation system to ensure: a: .. Preservation and resforation of environniental resources; b. Management of all parkland and open space in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner, . c Opportunities for all citizens to enjoy, appreciate, and understand the.City's � ��environmental areas. � 2. - Proeide leadership and coordinafion with federal, state, regional and local auEhorities to: � � Parks and Recreation Plan - Suggested Language from Disirict 10 Como Community Council' • Apri125,1996. --_,_ - -2- designations. and coordinated with the Metro Region Forest Resource ManagemenE Plan and the Ci ,'ty s Le�islative Code �erEainin�to heritage preservation. Develop management and protection strategies for endangeted species 3. ��� and/or sensiHve,habitats and cultural resources: �-c: Provide and coordinate adequate and consisEent enforcement of ' : regulations to "profect cultural resources: water quality; wetlands, native '- �- habitats; � the river corridor, and other surrounding envi'rons: . d. ': Pursue the possibilitv of restoring or reconstructing wetlands within _ oark and open s�ace areas. ._ . Pursue opporEunities and partnerships to acquire land specifically for operi space and�1•envirorimental resource protection according-to anTof the following criteria: a. Areas confaining species included on the State or Federal list of endangered or threatened species; b. Areas representing significant landforms, native plant communities,.er sensitive habitat, or cuituxal resources: c. Areas that connecE existing components of Ehe open space network; and d. Areas.adjacent Eo existing parkland/open spaces. . ' .� Support and strengtheri citywide tree preservation and reforesEation efforts. a. Establish a Tree Advisbry Board to.help oversee fhe �lanning and . �., , . .. � . � 5. . Take advantage of opportunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the City's open space and natural resources. Priority will be : given to opportunities that do not add publicly=owned and developed .. . parkland that will require addifional public maintenance or operating . expenses,_ ' - . a Parks and Recreation Plan - . Suggested Language from District 10 Como Commvnity Council • ApriT 25,1996 . _ � � - Objecfive 4: Fulfili park �ieveToysnent priorifies _ : The park system is tontinuaIly being deveIoped� an� redeveloped, and - rehabilitated. Many projects are necessary to ensure that eo le-��#ea�-' . - _ •�__,.. �a� liave adequate access to qualif;��ark and recreational .opportunities. � Others aie necessary to modemize park facilities and ensure that they meet current codes: i'ark development priorities change tHrough. the years as environmental and - recreational demands and needs change arid the Division musE continue to explore oppbrfunities Eo meet these needs. However, there are some projecEs that currently . ' stand out because ot their magnitude and potenEial_impact on the entire Cify re ion. To realize these projects, they must become the grimary focus of park_ development efforts and resources iri the coming years. � Polic'ies: . 11." Tn the Regional Parks and Open Space System, the City will give priority Eo ali of the following (map) aftei environrriental resource inventories have been com�leted (see Objective 1 Policy 2.a� a. . Completion of the Como Park Ivtaster Plan goals --�; .- b Completion of plans to improye_the river front_(see Obj. 2, policy_7); , c. �.. Development of recreational trails (see Objectiye 3). , _ . Parks and Recreation Plan - . ' � Sugges#ed Language from District 10 Como Communiry Council • Apri125,1996 - : _4_ . �1�-3 as Ofijecfive 5: EnFsattce the City and its xeigFiborF:oods �,_ . ' Parks. and recreation facilities enhaace the quality of the Cify and its neighborhoods. They function as the public s"backyard", giying re&idents places to play, sociaiize, _ and relax. Attractive, well=maintained park and recreation facilities become focal painEs of neighborhood pride and identity. In some cases, parks can pose co.ncerns for adjacent property ov�ners, thereby diminishing appreciation of a park as a. neighborhood asset. In addition, the values of parks as neighboihood concezns about perceived negatiye impacts, such as when a recreationai trail is proposed � adjacent to private properfy, need to be balanced by the recreational needs of the �. �1�, ____�,,._�.. _.. :-._,�_T_ - ion. The City must continue to work to foster appropriate design, maintenance, and communi ,ty involvemerit to ensuie parks enhance neighborhoods as well as serve e�-t�t the broader public. � Polieies: 14. Provide site and facility�desig,n, rehabilitation, and retro-fitting that: . a. : Meets or exceeds accepted standards £or safety, security, durability maintenarice and accessibility; � . b. - Meets user needs for support facilities such as trans ortati n lighting, drinkirig water, zestroom, signage; . c Respects and -- �zsbreserves the nat�ral and. histor'ic environment; � - d. . Respects and enitances neighborhood identity; `. . , e. Minimiies impacts on surroundirig neighborhoods. � 25. Pxovide resources to supporE site and facility maintenance that: �, a. - Is appropriate to the size and_u"se of the facility; � b. Enhances visiliility anct attractiveness; � c. . Maximizes safety and security: _ • 16. Provide resources to ensure timely repair, maintenance, and/or replacement of park facilities to minimize accidents and safety hazards and improve appearance. 17. Involve neighborhood residents, park users, and community groups in plannin�, development, programirig, and maintenance of parks. (see Obj. IQ, policy 36) " . . Parks and Reueation Plan - Suggesfed Language from District 10 Como Coinmuniry Council • Apri125,199b _g_ � .. 36. Involve all constituents (residents, park users, interest groups) iri setting baIanced priorities for �lanning� devela�ment, programing, maintenance, use of faciIifies, and other park and recreation reiated matters. = a.. Use of the Ci 's Earl� Notification S�stem Polic�and Procedure will be used• _ b. AlI nearb� district councils ivill be invited iit the`site revieiv�rocess - . : from its beginning . , Obpective 10: Foster opportunities for otz,-goiizg cornmunity and citizen � �=irivolvernen# and eedback � � . f... Tnvolving citizens iri decisions regarding park development; operations, - ' and.maintenance gives them a sense of ownership, responsibility, and control. Residents play an important role in helping staff identify park and recreatiori rieeds specific to their neighborhood. In 1990 the Ciey took a signi£icant step in provid'uig a forum for- citizen_involvement in the �lanning inanagement, operations, and development �of the park and recreation system by establishing the Saint Paul Parks � and Recreation Commission. -E��g x andin suppoit for citizen participation must be provided to ensure�ei�that invoivement is meaningful and effective and has a clear impact on the quality of park and recreation senrices.. Policies: : r_. . Detailed minutes of all Parks and Reerearion Commis ion and . commiftee meetings wiIl be available. ". e Parks and Recreation Plan - Suggested Langctage from District 10 Como Community Council • AprIl 25,1996 . _6_ . . q(�_ ��s Councilmember Mike Harris May i, 1996 Proposed Amendments to Parks and Recreation Plan Resolufion 96-325 Objecfive 1 (p. 7} --Add under Policy 2 c. Open a cIeaner and more &iendly river to swinuners and other recreational users. 2. Objective 1 (p.'� under Policy 5 --Delete the last sentence. 3. Objective 2 (p. 8) --Add under Policy 6 "riverfront chazacter, including, but not limited to, opening the river&ont to more personal recreation activities like swimming, fishing and canoeing." 4. Objective 4 (p. 12) --Add under Policy 12 g. Review existing demographic and economic data far possible additions to identified Neighborhood in Transition Centers. 5. Objective 8 (p. 19) --Add under Policy 26 d. Maeimizing our fixed assets to keep recreation centers open 7 days a week. (Could also be under Objectiva 12) 6. Objective 10 (p. 21) --Under policy 36 after the phrase "use of facilities," add "physical enhancement or development of facilities and/or open spaces," --Add under policy 36 the foilowing sentence "Site plans for facility improvements will be submitted to tke Plamiing Commission and City Council for review and approval." IMI'LEMENTATION PLAN 7. Design and Development (p. 28} Add statement "Modify ciry ordinances so that Parks and Recreation proposals for physical enhancements of facilities andlor open spaces that require a site plan be reviewed by the Plamiing Commission and Ciry Council. 8. Outreach, Awareness, and Promotion (p. 24) --amend number 19 to read: `Bxplore the possibility of moving Cafesjian's Carousel to Como Pazk." �'�_3aS 9. Oimeach, Awareness, aad Promotion (p29) --In response to Objective 7 policy 28 (p. 19}, Objective 12 policy 43 (p.23} and Finding 6(gage 23) add item "Compile an inventory of all the joint use agreements that Pazks and Recreation has with various schools, universities and other inscitutions in order to publicize the opportwuties for the parks users. Furthermore, in iight of recent facility eapansions by the St. Paul School District, Pazks and Recreation needs to clarify the legai status of those agreements." 1Q. Not sure of proper location: --Include city participafion in the Winter Canuval and a regulazly scheduIed Ice Casfle (i.e, every five years). ��-3�S 0 �IT'Y OF SAINI' PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor 390 Ciry Hall IS Y➢est KeRogg Boulevard Saint Paul, MN 55102 Zelephone: 612-266-8510 �r °"'�'" Facsimile: 6I2-228A513 February 28, 1996 Council President Dave Thune and Members of the City Council 310.B City Hall Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 Deaz President Thune and Members of the City Council: Enclosed is the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan, a comprehensive plan for the ciry's pazks and recreation system developed at the request of the Parks and Recreation Commission. I recommend it to you for adoption as a chapter of the Saint Paul Comprehensive Plan. The plan was prepared at the request of the Parks and Recreation Commission to replace the existing 1985 plan. The communiry-based task force that developed this new plan included representatives of the Pazks and Recreation Commission, Plamiing Commission, and citizens with various backgrounds and interests related to parks and recreation. Workshops, focus groups, and interviews were used to ensure that the plan represents what Saint Paul residents want for their parks and recreation system. After holding a public heazing on the task force-recommended plan, the Parks and Recreation Commission pcepazed its recommendations, which are included in the attached plan and memo. The Commission's recommendations reflect testimony received at the public hearing, and written testimony received from six boards or agencies, including the Saint Paul Planning Commission. As required by the Administrative Code, the Planning Commission's recommendations are also attached for your information. The Pazks and Recreation Plan's three major strategies contain recommendations that directly support my interest in fhe riverfront, community development, and carefui management of government resources. I am also confidern that the plan will provide a strong policy framework to help us meet the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing our parks and recreation system in the yeazs ahead. I am pleased to transmit this pian for your consideration. I urge its adoption. Sin ely, O,Q� ICiL.�/� orm Coleman Mayor cc: Jill Danner, Chair, Pazks and Recreafion Commission Robert Piram, Director, Parks and Recreation Division Donna Druimnond, Dept. of Planning and Economic Development Sainf �� � �l � -3 � C1��i_ 300 Ciry Hall Annex, 25 W. 4th Strat, Saint Paul, MN 55102 •• 612R66-6400 MEMORANDUM DATE: February i, 1996 TO: Mayor Norm Coleman Ciry Council President Dave Thune and Members of the Ciry Council FROM: ' Tntroduction Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission Parks and Recreation Plan: Recommendation for Adoption The Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission is forwarding to you for your review a new Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan. This plan, which wiil be a chapter in the City's Comprehensive Plan, was undertaken at the request of the Commission to replace the exisring plan that was adopted in 1985. The new plan was developed by a task force that included representatives of the Pazks Commission and Planning Commission, as well as cirizens with various intexests and backgtounds retated to parks and recreation. The pian provides a decision framework of strategies and specific policies to guide future development, operations, and maintenance of the Saint Paul parks and recreation system. Process On May 17, 1995 the Pazks and Recreation Commission held a public hearing on the draft Pazks and Recreation Plan developed by flie Park Planning Task Force. The Commission reviewed the verbal and written comments received, and have recommended changes fo the plan based on this testimony. The testunony, and the Commission's response to that testimony, are described below. Resulting changes to the pian recommended by the Commission are highlighted in the attached copy of the pian. Deletions are crossed out, and additions aze underlined. Inciuded in the swcunary of the testimony are comments from the Plarming Commission and the Parks Commission's response. As required by Sec. 105.06(c) of the Acltsiinistrative Code, the Plamiiug Commission's cornments aze attached for your information. Six people spoke at the public hearing, and written comments were received from five boards or agencies and five individuals. The Commission met with Parks and Recreation Division and Planning Division staff to review the testimony and decide what changes to recommend based on this input. The Commission concluded that the plan should remain concise and focused. The Commission also feels strongly that the plan must resuit in careful management of the Ciry's increasingly linuted resources, focusing on whaYs most important, and avoiding overcommiunent of Ciry resources. Given these premises, the Commission carefuliy considered aii comments and has recommended only Saint Panl Parks and Recreation Commissioners: 7i11 Danner, Chairpersoa; Terrence Huatrods, Vice-Chairperson David Goodlow, Kenneth Mauer, Blia Moua, John O'Halloran, Carol Osip Phil Ravitzky, Karen Skwira �l� Mayor Coleman and Members of the Ciry Council Re: Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan February 1, 1996 those changes that measurably strengthen the plan as a policy document. In addition, a few minor wording changes have been recommended in some places to correct typographical errors or insure consistency in phrasing. Public Testimonv A brief summary of tlte public hearing testimony received, followed by the Commission's response and recommended changes, if any, is given below. A copy of the plan, with the recommended changes indicated, is attached. Plauning Commission These are the areas that the Planning Commission commented on: Maps. There should be more of them in the text to illustrate plan policies, more inventory maps in the appendix, and the trail map should be coordinated with the Transportation Plan Bicycle Route map. Recommendation: The following maps have been added: a) Major River Access Points and Views; b) Regional Parks and Open Space Priorities; c) Local Parks and Recreation System Priorities; d) Inventory maps showing puks and parkways, specialized recreation facilities, and recreation centers. The trail map has been coordinated with the Transportation Plan bicycle route map. 2. Action Plan. Some of the action steps need to be more specific. Recommendation: The 1995-1996 Action Plan has been revised to make action steps as specific as possible. Also, it has been updated to 1996-1997, since 1995 is nearly over. 3. Plan updating. The plan should be reviewed and updated if necessazy whenever a new two year action plan is approved. Recommendation: New policy 54, p. 21 on periodic updating has been added. 4. Integration of parks plauning with other initiatives. The City should take advantage of opportunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the city's open space and natural resources. Recommendation: A new policy 5(p. 7) is recommended to address this. 5. Mississippi River. The Pazks Plan should give greater emphasis to the River and the oppominities it represents for the city. Recommendation: Many detailed changes were recommended by the Planning Commission. The Parks Commission carefully reviewed these suggested changes, and recommends some � �-3�5 Mayor Coleman and Members of the City Council Re: Saint Paul Pazks and Recreation Plan February 1, 1996 that increase the plan's emphasis on the River, yet keep the plan concise and focused. These changes aze on: p. 5- Finding 8; and p. 8- Objective 2. BicVCle Advisorv Board The BAB's written wmments fall under four main azeas: L T7•ail system map. Many changes to the trail map in the plan draft are needed to: make it more accurate (including showing parkways); make it consistent with the Transportation Plan map, including showing the three principal recreational routes (Saint Paul Grand Round Loop, Mississippi River Trail, and Capitol Route); and show connections to trails outside St. Paul. Recommendation: An unproved trail system map, developed with input from Bicycle Advisory Board members, is included in the plan. 2. New policies. Add several new policies related to education regarding bicycle safety and environmental protection. Add a policy giving top priority to the three principal recreational trail systems. Recommendarion: Revise an existing policy, giving priority to completion of the three principal trail systems, and adding the Phalen Creek Trail. See revised policy 8(p.9). 3. Trail System Design Standards. Add an appendix to the plan with specific design standards. Recommendation: Modify Policy 9.a to refer to AASHTO (Am. Assoc. of State Highway and Transportation Officials) standards. Adding the actual design standards to the plan appendix is unnecessary. 4. 1995-1996 Action Steps. Detailed recommendations for actions to add or improve bike lanes and trails over the next two yeazs. Recommendafion: Many of the BAB recommendations deal with providing on-street bike lanes, many in conjunction with street reconstruction projects. The Dept. of Public Works is responsible for any on-street striping for bike Ianes. Parks and Recreation staff generally feel that on-street bicycle lanes primarily serve a transportation function, and as such should be dealt with in the City's Transportation Policy Plan. This plan is currently being updated by the Planning Commission, and the public hearmg draft has extensive policies dealing witfi bikeway development. The Parks staff will continue to work with the BAB to coordinate the recreational trail system, which serves pedestrians and other trail users as well as bicyclists, with the on-street bicycle transporation system. Public Hearine Verbal Testimonv Five individuals spoke at the public hearing regazding: more riverfront facilities; more family-oriented attractions; integrate pazk planning with other City redevelopment activities; emphasize winter ��-3� Mayor Coleman and Members of the Ciry Council Re: Saint Paul Pazks and Recreation Plan February 1, 1996 activities; and pazk/open space needs in Snelling-Hamline. Recommendation: These individuals raised important issues related to the pazk system. This input wili be considered as Pazks staff and the Pazks Commission deal with specific issues and siruations that arise. Two of the issues raised warrant changes to the plan: 1) Regazding integration of pazk planning with redevelopment activities, a new policy has already been recommended above (new 5, p. 7); and 2) a new policy on family-oriented facilities and attractions is recommended on p. 12, new 23. District 2 Communitv Council The letter from this wmmunity council included 16 specific comments relating to a wide variety of topics, addressing areas such as acquisition, referencing of other City pians in the Parks Plan, recognizing open space owned by other governmental units or privately owned, trails, reevaluating NIT centers, neighborhood parks, safety, and restoring the wetland at Phalen Shopping Center. Recommendafion: These are important issues related to the park system. Again, this input will be considered as Parks staff and the Parks Commission deal with specific issues and situations that arise. Afrer careful consideration, no specific changes in wording are recommended. In many instances, the Community Council's suggestions deal with actively expanding the city's parks system. The Commission feels that Policy 13, which defines criteria for acquisition of or access to land for pazks and recreation development, adequately deals with these issues. Specific situations wiil be looked at on a case-by-case basis, following these criteria. In other instances, the Commission agreed with the statements but felt they didn't need to be specifically addressed in the Parks Plan, or felt that the issues were adequately dealt with by the existing plan policies. It should be noted that the District 2 Plan and the Phalen Village Small Area Plan, which the Communiry Council felt should be referenced in the Parks Plan, are also considered adopted chapters of the Ciry's Comprehensive Plan. The plans need to compiement one another, but do not need to repeat each other. District 10 Communitv Council This community council raised three main issues: 1) resource protection should be emphasized over recreation needs; 2) an inventory of environmental resources (cultural and natural) is needed; and 3) there should be more outreach by the Parks Commission to community groups. RecommendaHon: The existing plan drafr promotes fmding a balance between protecting resources and being responsive to recreational needs. Natural resource inventories and resouxce management plans ue identifed as specific action steps for 1996-1997. Finally, the Parks Commission has discussed and will continue to discuss and explore ways in which it can better communicate with the broader communiry. National Park Service The letter from NPS was generally supportive and complimentary of the pian draft. The NPS feels many of the policies related to the Mississippi River aze supportive of the Comprehensive �� -3 � Mayor Coleman and Members of the Ciry Council Re: Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan February 1, 1996 Management Plan for the Mississippi Nauonal River and Recreation Area (MNRRA). They especially support increasing physical and visual access to the River, including developing trails along the river and "neighborhood linkages" to the River. The NPS is interested in worldng with the City on this, and also in pursuing education parinership opportunities. Finally, the letter points out a correction needed in Finding 3, p. 5 related to increases in pazkland acreages. Recommendation: The Parks staff wIll continue to work with NPS on the MNRRA when there aze opportunities to do so. Also, correction made to acreage figure reference in Finding 3, p. 5. Letters from Individuals Five letters from individuals were received. The major issues raised aze listed on the attached public hearing issue summary. Recommendation: As stated above, this input raises unportant issues related to the park system. Some of the issues have been addressed in the responses above. Other comments related to format and graphics will be considered during final plan production following City Council approval. In general, this input will be considered as Parks staff and the Parks Commission deal with specific issues and situations that arise, but do not warrant additional changes to the plan draft, with one exception. The plan does not directly reference the three-tier system for recreation centers approved as part of the 1985 Parks Plan, nor does it discuss the service delivery team approach to staffing recreation centers that is being explored and is referenced in the Action Plan. An additional finding (new 4) on p. 14 is recommended. Parks Couimission Recommended Chanee The Parks Commission also recommends a change to Recommendation 12 dealing with local parks and recreation system priorities, deleting e. "redevelopmern/replacement of obsolete neighborhood recreation centers", and replacing it with e. "improvement of facilities that support oppominities for coordination and partnership". The Commission feels the City's emphasis should be on looking for opporiunities to provide recreational services in the most cost-effective manner while still meeting the recreational needs of the ciry's residents. This may or may not involve redeveloping or replacing obsolete recreation centers. The Parks and Recreation Commission looks forward to your adoption of this new Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan. If you have any questions about the plan or these recommendations, please call Jill Danner, chair of the Pazks and Recreation Commission (224-7910); Robert Piram, Superintendent of Parks and Recreation (266-6404); or ponna Drununond of the Planning Division staff (266-6556). Attachments. cc: Robert Piram, Parks and Recreation Division Ken Ford and Donna Drummond, Planning Division Parks and Recreation Division Managers Parks and Recreation Commission public hearing testiFiers distribution i /���-_ �4,s..�,�-� �� 2_ 3 4 � O approval ❑ please call me or your information p please see me ❑ necessary action ❑ prepare reply ❑ note and fiie O recommendation ❑ note and return O sign q y� � r , � �f"� � (�z � ,� �.,,�,,,��. � �- �. Fa.n.a �„��,,, ,� ti`�` �a- � e�,, ���,"""�'.�..�;ti, ��--� �s^�-� � �fz� ' r— � '�""".rP n �' � �hVi'F. Y.L �t� �'_- `q --gv l 4: i-o.J% k' a ��M I Irpm � �' /�`�' . `� � Q tlate . t� . ' ,� r�1� d,�,� �� � w � °--r� � �' �� �-., �,.,�.� �� �� ��,� � �tt � tit). �! � �� ��-3 aS Saint . Pa� Parks and Recreation Commissi 300 Ciry Hall Armcx, 25 W. 4th S�cct, Saint Paui, MN 55102 -- 612R66-6400 mrEazoxnrmu�z � `'� d �y .�c s�_ � � i �' � DATE: � TO: FROM: June 12, 1996 '�uitc�l �ri �/a�9b o,t City Council President bave Thune and R S' a �" i �''� � Members of the Saint Paul City Council c��nSe S �n�f e c� �iP�"� �/t ( J Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission `��f� ��m+�ss�cv� rec�.nw+�^���,`�"�'b� s acce exc�'r wHzre naxd-� RE: Parks and Recreation Plan: Recommended Changes Based on City Council Public Hearing Testimony Introduction On April 3 and May 1, 1996, the City Council conducted public hearings on the draft Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan, as recornmended by the Parks and Recreation Corrunission. Five people spoke at the public hearing (mostly in support of written comments), and writtzn testimony was received from seven individuals or groups. The City Council asked the Pazks and Recreation Commission to consider this testimony, and recommend appropriate changes to the plan. This memo summarizes the oral testimony, and provides a point-by-point Parks Commission response and recommendation to the written testunony. Oral Testimonv On April 3, three people spoke at the hearing. Chip Welling, Merriam Park resident, stated that the City has a great parks system. He said bicycle lane striping on Summit Ave. has been a major improvement, although downtown is still bad for bicyclists. He supports the current and future improvemznts depicted on the Trail System map (p. 11). Paul Gilliland, District 2 resident, spoke in support of written comments submitted by the District 2 Community Council (covered below). Wiil Sorle'in, Arlington Youth Club, noted that Arlington Recreation Center, al[hough one of the smallest recreation centers in the city at 2 acres, has the sixth highest level of participation and use. He said the inventory of recreation centers on p. 38 should be corrected in that Arlington has no tennis or basketball court, and only 1 sofrball field. On May 1, two people spoke at the hearing. Tom Kelly, chair, Como Park Committee, Disfrict 10, spoke in support of written comments submitted by the District 10 Como Community Council (covered below). Karen Swenson, District 2 resident, spoke in support of slightly revised written comments submitted by the District 2 Community Council (covered below). Written Tesfimonv Written comments were submitted by 7 individuals or groups. These are presented in full as submitted, with a staff response following each point. The written comments submitted are in regular type, the Commission response is in italics. Suggested deletions to the text of the plan are crossed out, additions are underlined. The Commission wouid like to emphasize that any additions to the plan ' Saint Paul Parks and RecreaGon Commissioners: Jill Danner, Chairperson; Terrence Huntrods, Vice-Chairperson >r_ . — • - — -. _. . .. .... . _ _ . ..... .. �. , ,. ..� . ,. _ . .— �' -- ��_. :_ . - a�.-� as Council President Thune and Members oi the City Council June 12, 1996 that would require additional resources (staff, facilities, or both) should be qualified by the availability of adequate resources. Council President Dave Thune " The new policy suggested belo�v (to follow Policy 26, under Objective 8 on p. 19) would encourage the City to be open to new, emerging recrea[ion trends, such as stiateboardine, that will better meec the recreation needs of St. Faul residents. y Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and pro�rzmming that contributes to s[able neighborhoods. new 27. Consider nrovidine facilities or proerammine for alternative, emereina recreation trends, particularlv those that meet the recreational needs of vouth (such as skateboardin¢). Commission response: Agree, hotivever, it would be best to avoid the reference to a specific activiry, tivhich may become limiting. Councilmember Janice Rettman '` Add a new policy 24, p. 16, under Objective 6 City's park and recreation system. Foster the economic developmenc poten[ial of the 24. Pursue oublic/orivate workine partnershiDS in reaional Darks onlv if additiona] financinQ sources will promote the adeauate maintenance of current park facilities and proerammine as we11 as ensure that the St. Paul Regional Parks remain free and accessible to all. Cornmissiorz response: Slightly modified wording is recommended to clarify memiing. 24. Pursue patbliclprivate partnerships in reeional parks that ,�inanciativ sup�ort the adequate maintenance of � includin9i LJrnoZco Gnd Add the underlined language to policy 45, p. 24, under Objective 13: Increase utilization of �� � supplemental resources. � 45. Pursue opportunities to secure federal, state, and private resources (e.g. grants, partnerships) when and where possible to: a. Ensure free access toprograms and facilities���clkd�'n�'� �rno �ce a.�d C�;�se��va"'�ar./) b. Provide the or anizational ca acit to chan�e service delive � g p y o ry, including the provision of new services. c. Build, operate, and maintain facilities; and p,cS�� d. Expand services beyond the general fund budget (e.g. specialist contracts, community education)- provided thatthe intent of the Parks Division is to expand access or opportunities for citizens and not develop programs or expand services onlv to solely generate revenues or establish a special revenue fund. Commz ' • First, slight t e ing is rec n e ' mea ' " r `� ��-�as Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 affordable" afrer ee in a. tivord 'f'ree" could prohibit chargin en a modest fee for programs and use of facilities for which the 's notiv a fee (e.g. skiing, . Second, the additional language suggested for d. is probably not �:ecess if Iooked at ' e contzrt of the objective. The paragraph exp(aining Obj. I3: "Increase uti(ization of s eniai resources. " under x�hicia policy 45 is found (p. 24), exp?ains the intent of this policy b� atin ,"Supplemental resources s�ch as fzes, granu, and partnerships, a[Ioiv the Division to vide services peo want which appropriated funds alone cannot support. In some e , supplemental resources are essary to ens«re access to services for a11 mernbers of our muniry ". 1he Parks Division should not p ide services solely to generate revenues far er programs, unless the reverate generated is funneled � to support parks and recre ' n activities. Councilmember Mike Harris Objective 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space and natural resources. * Add to Policy 2, p. 7. 2. 0.c ��� �� Provide leadership and coordination wi[h federal, state, regional, and local authorities to: a. Develop management and protection strategies for endangered species and/or sensitive habitaCS; b. Provide adequate and consistent enforcement of regulations to protect water quality, wetlands, native habitats, and the river corridor. c. Onen a cleaner and more friendlv river to swimmers and other recreational users. �z po e: The Commission beli are safer River. addition without e specific re ence to than the as '` Delete the last sentence of Policy 5, p. 7. Take advantage of opportunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the City's open space and natural resources. ..AA ....�1: i.. .. ..vA �.,A Av..ei....vA ..n�7.7....A �hnh ., :11 .. ..AA:ti....nl .�..L.1:.. ' b ' Commission response: The Ciry needs to be open to aI1 opportunities to add open space, but particularly in those cases where there wi1L not be an additional maintenance or operating cost for the Ciry. The sentence should remain in. " Add to Policy 6, p. 8. 6. Encourage riverfront development that is environmentally compatible with its unique location � J � and fos[ers a pazk-like riverfront character, includin¢ but not limited to. opening the riverfront Q ,._ 1 _' to more personal recreation activities like swimminQ, fishing, and canoein2. ��-ePrrc{ �����$ Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 to sp rnay b > in the re: Agree, if t addition 's ended afrer activities. eference to sn ifrc activitie again, rhe be too 1X� ed about " Add to Policy 12, p. 12, under Objective 4: Fulfill park development priorities. 12. In the Local Parks and Recreation System the City will give priority to all of the following (map): a. b. � � Completion of Community Reczeation Centers (North Dale and Battle Creek); Focus on upgrading ideniified Neighborhoods in Transition centers: Provision of facilities to accommodate emerging sports and other activities; Redevelopmentof Highland Park; Improvement of facilities that support opportunities for coordination and partnership; Upgrading of Swede Hollow Park •, and Review of existine demographic and economic data for �ossible additions to identified Neighborhoods in Transition Centers. Commissio�z response: Agree, but with the replacement of "additions" with "changes". % Add to Policy 26, p. 19, under Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and prograznming that contributes to stable neighborhoods. 26. Provide recreation programming that helps build a sense of community through: a. Responsiveness to the diverse needs and desires of residents; b. Enhancement and celebration of neighborhood identity; c. Improved outreach to all residents, including those not currently using recreation services- and d. Maximizin� our fixed assets to keep recreation centers open 7 davs a week. Commission response: Agree, with slightly mod�ed wording to ciarify meaning and better match the phrasing of the rest of the recommendation, as foZlows: d. Keepine recreation centers o�n 7 days a week as need and available resources pernzit. �` Add to Policy 36, p. 21, under Objective 10: Foster opportunities for on-going community and citizen involvement and feedback. 36. Involve all constituents (residents, park users, interest groups) in setting balanced priorities for programming, maintenance, use of facilities, physical enhancement or development of facilities and/or open s�aces, and other park-related matters. Site plans for facility improvements will be submitted to the Plannine Commission and Citv Council for review and aoproval. Commission response: Agree with the addition of the first phrase. Regarding the last sentence, requiring Planning Commissian and City Council review and approval for atl parks facitities site plans � ��"� � Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 would make government less respo�zsive, rather than more responsive. All sitep(ans for construction irt the city are notiv reviewed by a team of City staff from various departme�:ts. (Site plan revietiv is detailed in Sec. 62.I08 of the Zoning Code.) District councils receive notifzcation of aU site plan revietivs. Individuals or graups may rec�uest Planning Commission review of a particular sire pinn. Planning Cornrnission decisions mcry be appealed to Ciry Coa�ncil. This system provides adeqatate safegz�ards, ividiout unduly slo:ving dotivn the timetine for making planned improvements. There are approxirnately 20-30 parks-related building projects every year. To require Plamting Commissiora and Ciry Council review on al1 would add tremendously to the time and lvorkload of all concerned without adding measc�rable benefits. " Add an action step in the Implementation Plan under "Design and Development" on p. 28. Site olans for faci]itv imorovemznts will be submitted to the Plannine Commission and Citv Council for review and ao ro ovat. Comntission response: As stated above, the Commission befieves that adding steps to the formal revielv process wi11 tnake government less responsive rather than more.In addition, steps add costs to the process as well at all Zevels. The current appeals process has worked well in cases where there are policy and communiry concerns. " Replace action step 19 on p. 29. 19. �:o�,°.' ���°m.:�°an . ExDlore the oossibilitv of movine Cafesjian's Carousel to q�� � Como Park. Commission response: Como Park already has a large number of attractions that draw people. Y7ze Commission cannot recommend adding more attractions without a review process that includes the Carousel Board and the community. A[so, a move to Como would require construction of a building to accommodate th�rousel. The fol[owi�� o � nQ wording, which doesn'� i`t a Como Park location, is suggested, "C�tnu�to explore th ssibiliti�r ke�in$ es tan's usel in St �t"1� " Add a new action step on p. 29 under "Outreach, Awareness, and Promotion". Comoile an inventorv of all the joint use aereements that Parks and Recreation has with various q4 schools, universities, and other institutions in order to publicize the opoortunities for parks users. �� Furthermore, in liaht of recent facility expansions bv the St. Paul School District. Parks and Recreation needs to clarify the leaal status of those documents. Commission under action Staff s�21 under �1 community use a aware of any pr� ; with the school with the first senrence, but wo treach, Awareness, and P motio; �recreation facilities. e second or ambigui wzth any af the affwill review these ug stthis be added as a neiv d. on . 29, which addresses s of ente ce is probably not n ded. lega documents that d ne joint use agree nts as they mpile the 5 c� �,, S as Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 " Add a policy_to require City participation in the Winter Carnival, including a regularly scheduled Ice Casile (i.e. every five years). Cornmission resporzse: The Ciry has a long history of participating in rhe Winter Carnival, This includes offering joint activities mtd sharirag facilities each year tivith the St. Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation, the private group that operates the Winter Carnivai. The foundation determines tivhen an ice castle shauld be built (a�td does the major fundraising);Parks and Recreation has assisted by providing a public space for it. This is just one example of the many communiry partners the Parks and Recreation Aivision works with each year. Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsev Countv * p. 7, Objec[ive 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of thz city's open space and natural resources. nelv policy b. Work with Ramsev Countv to ensure the hiehest water qualitv in our lakes and streams that is nossible. Commission response: Agree, with some slight mada,fications, as follows: Work with Ramsey Counri and others to ensure rhe hiQhest oossible water qualitv in the cttv's lakes and streams. " new policy 7. Sup�ort institutine new zonine code for park lands Commission response: Zoning is generally implemented to ensure appropriate development and use of [and. The idea of adding a zoning category for park land was studied in some detail several years ago tivith the Parks Commission and Planning staff. It was determined that a separate zoning category was a timeconsuming process and could create more problems than it wautd solve. The city charter amendment approved several years ago nutkes it very difficult for the City to sell or give up parkland,• and if this is determined to be necessary, land must be found to replace it in the park system. This serves the purpose of designating and protecting parklands in Saini Paul. * new policy 8. Blufflands throuehout the city should be protected bv easements or acquisition. Commission response: Most of the city's blufflands are already protected in one way or another, either through pubZic ownership or through buiZding restrictions. This policy is probably not necessary. * p. 10, Objective 3: Develop park and open space connections. Policy 8. Pursue opportunities to expand the City's recreational trail system and give priority to development of trails which: �� �new e. Provide north-south bicycle-pedestrian connection. (Ail parkwavs and boulevards and A potential main corridors such as Ayd Mill Road should accommodate bicy,cle and � � Council President Thune and Membe;s of the City Council June 12, 1996 �_pedestrian traffic. i.e. Lexinoton Parkwav and Avd Mill Roadwav Viewin� the Trail System map, p. 11, the lack of a north-south connection is evidznt. I[ is important to provide bicycle/pedestrian trails in thz heart of the city. The map highli�hts the difficulty in getting to Como Park from 2nywhere in the southwest portion of the city. Co�nrnission r trail ntap z p. II Mill, P ca1, and. The north-south to Como ccre nor there n ut � are planned. and on-st et bike lanes e sozuhwest. new f. Separate bike and vedestrian facilities should be orovided �vhen �Vheelock Parkwav is redevzlooed. Commission response: As iridicated on the trait map, p. II, and in Policy IOd. (p. IO}, this is what is planned for Wheelock. " p. 16 Objective 6: �.,�� � a,, e�., ........:... ..c...� r:. .,_,, .,a s}sEe�t3- Foster parks and recreation as a valuable asset of the citv. Commission response: The onginal wording of this objectiue should remain. The recommendations under this objective have whar could be termed economic development benefits for the ciry, so rhe original rovording is more descriptive. '�` p. 19, Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and programming that contributes to stable neighborhoads. The recreation centers are called upon to do more and more activities that could be labeled "Human Services". The St. Paul Parks and Recreation Division should focus on recreational activities and the the Parks Division becomes more involved in human services. thev will not have the resources to fulfill their mission of nrovidine recreational services. Manv recreation centers are lar�e buiidinas which should not be considered the domain of only the Parks Division. The centers should be a piace for the neiehborhood to eather where they can join in recreational activities or receive a varietv of services. Commission response: This recommendation is not necessary, as Parks and Recreation programming does focus on recreational activities. Most people would probably agree that these activities have some associated sociai benefits. And zhe staff do feet thar recreation centers are cammunity gathering places where residents can take advantage of programming or services provided by others. The location of a number of district council offices and meeting rooms in recreation centers is probably the best example. * Add detailed Table of Contents itemizing policies and objectives - to make it easier to read. 7 �G�' Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 Commisszon response: This wi[[ be done in the,fnal priraing. " Some policies are in conflict - such as Policy 1. "Pursuz opportunities and partnerships to acquire land specificaily for open space and natural resources protection according to thz foilowing criteria, ete. and Policy 5. "Take advantage of opportunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the City's open space and natural resources. Priority wi11 be given to opportunities that do not add publicly-owned and devzloped parkland that will require additiona( public maintenance or operating expense. Commission response: The Cornrnissiorr does not believe that rhese policies are irt conflict. It is probably possible to come up lvith circumstances where po[icies could be in conflict, bcu generally [he poZicies are tivritten to cover a ivide variery of circumstances and issues. Judgment must be used to deter»:ine which policy is the most relevant to a pctrticular situation. " There is no mention of enterprise facilities such as golf, Midway Stadium, large picnic shelters, etc. There should be a policy stating that it a facility is revenue generating, a cer[ain percent of the revenue should be reinvested in the facility in order to maintain it. Cornrnission response: This is a very complicated issue that the Parks Commission has been looking at for some time. The Parks Commission will continue to work on revenue iss�tes. A general policy intended to cover specifzc budget issues and circumstances that change frorn year to year probably �� daesn't belong in a Zong-range comprehensive plan. Qde( q n� rJcl�_by 1� o(tcy s kak�d b� Q s� de��clo0<d - �v dr,i�eree'ne -Fi�x use e� e,k+trp''se a.d rev�t,v�+�e i'��ds• .� * In the 1996-1997 Action Plan, dollars are listed under certain steps. What is the source of this n� y revenue? As outiined in the document itself, state and federal dollars are being reduced and the city budget is flat. If new larger [ecreation centers are built, how will the city be able to staff them? Commission response: The identification of dollar resources needed to accomplish various action steps tia�as an attempt to inform the reader of the potential budget impact of that action step. Largely, these costs have not been specificatty budgeted for. They witl be accomplished within the zristing budget as much as possible. Heritage Preservation Commission �` Major Strategies (p. 4) Shaping City Character This strategy recognizes that parks, parkways, and natural and historic features lend form, character, and identity which enhance the City and its neighborhoods. It also recognizes that the existing system of parks, parkways, and natural and historic resources provides a strong framework to build on. The policies in this strategy focus on preservation, maintenance, and development of the park and reczeation system and the City's nacural and historic resources. Commission response: Agree. 0 ��_�d� Cauncil President Thune and 141embers of the City Council 7une 12, 1996 " Strategy: Shaping City Character (p. 5) ... The Parks and Recreation Division must continue to explore ways to enhance and preserve the City's natural and historic environment and provide opportunities for pzople to become more aware of the natural and historic environment ... Commission respotzse: Agree. '` Fiudings: (p. 5) new 10. Saint Paul's oark svstem includes s[ructures and landsca�e features that are historicallv valuable. 7'heir oreservation is important to the continued vitalitv of the citv. Commission response: Agree. �` p. 7, Objective 1: Encoura�e protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space, na[ural, and historic resources. Saint Paul's open space, natural, and historic resources provide many bene£its ... The Division is continuously confronted with demands to expand recreational opportunities and increase access to develoDed and undeveloped parl:land. Consequently, the City's open space and historic resources may become vu]nerable to unwarranted use and degradation ... Commzssion response: Agree. " p. 7, Policy 2. Provide leadership and coordination with federal, state, zegional, and local authorities to: a. Complete and maintain an inven[orv of his[oric resources, includine site analvsis and evaluation of inteeritv and significance. b. a: Develop management and protection strateg4es for endangered spzcies and/or sensitive habitats and historically important structures and features. Commission response: Agree, ivith the addition of "naturat and" before historic resources in a. �` p. 8, Objective 2: Expand physical and visual access to the River. Policy 6. Encourage riverfront development that is environmentally compatiblz v,�ith its historv and unique location, and fosters a park-like riverfront character. Commission response: Agree. " p. 15, Objective 5: Enhance the Ciry and its neighboihoods. Policy 14. Provide site and facility design, rehabilitation, and retrofitting that: 0 a�-� a5 Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 Respec[s and enhances historicaliv important structures and features and the natural and historic environment; Co�nrnission response: This addition seems unnecessary, since the clause alread} refers to enhancing the historic environment. " Strategy: Building Community p. 21, Objective 11: Promote cultural a�vareness. Sc. Paul possesses a rich cultural heritaae and broad spectrum of arts, hisTOrical, and ethnic resources. Thzse resources include the oark system itself. and its historic stcuctures and feacures Commission response: Agree. " p. 21, Policy 40. Encoura�e the ureservation of historical3y im�ortant vark structures and features and the use of park facilities to host public cultural and historic events. Commission response: The recommendations under Objective 11, where policy 40 is found, deat with programming. This addition realty doesn't fzt here. It is adequately covered by Policy 2.b, as amended, (protection of historic resources) and 14.c. (site and facility design that respects the historic emironment). District 2 Communitv Council Objective 4: Fulfill park development priorities. '•` Add an item to Policy ]2, p. 12. 12. In the Local Parks and Recreation System the City will give priority to a11 of the following (map): a. Completion of Community Recreation Centers (North Dale and Battle Creek); b. Focus on upgrading identified Neighborhoods in Transition centers: c. Provision of facilities to accommodate emerging sports and other activities; d. Redevelopment of Highland Park; e. Improvement of facilities tha[ support oppor[unities for coordination and partnership; f. I3pgrading of Swede Hallow Park ; g. Review of existing demographic and economic data for possible additions to identified Neighborhoods in Transition Centers (g. was added above); and h. Coordinate with Public Works. DNR, and I2amsev-Washineton Watershed District in the Phalen/Ames Lake wetland restoration proiect. ' Commission response: Agree. The map illustrating these items also needs to be modifzed. " Amend Policy 13, p. 12. 10 ��.�as Council President Thune znd Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 13. Pursue opportunities and joint use partnerships to acquire or provide access to land for parks_ open space, or axc recreation development according to the foltowing cri[eria: ... Commission response: Agree. " Add an action item under "DzsiQn and Development" on p. 28. Work with Public Works. DD3R. Ramsev-Washineton `Vatershed District and the University of Minnesota to develop pians for the Phalen/Ames Lake wetland restoration. (12) Comrnission response: Agree, tie•irh slightly revised ivording: Participate with Public Works. DNR. Rantsev-Washin2ton tiYatershed District and the UniversiN of Minnesota in the oreDaration of olans � the Phalen/Ames Lake wetland restoration. (12) � In general, the plan does no[ place enough emphasis on the role of open space as an amenity and an enhancement to the livability of thz urban landscape. Add a new findin� on p. 5 for [he Shaping City Character Strategy. new 10. In addition. S[. Paul residents henefi[ from the use of recreational and ooen space manaQed bv other entities. These include Ramsev Countv Parks, Water Department open space. Public Works and Metropolitan Councilpondine and drainaee areas, and.private recreation lands. If possib]e, numbers of parcels, acreage, etc. should be indicated as they have been in other categories in this section. Commission response: Agree, but wou[d delete references to Metropolitan Council ponding and drainage areas (staff doesn't believe there are any in St. Paud). Also, figures on number of sites and acreage of these other types of open space is not readily available and would be costly to collect. " Include a map of all open space. Commission response: Agatn, this would be nice to fiave, but the information is not readlly available and would be costty to cotlect. �` Involve Parks Division and neighborhood in design, modification and use decisions for sewer easements, ponding areas, and other open space related to sewerage and watershed management. Commission response: Parks (Forestry section) is involved with the Public Works Department in pZanning the planting done for sewer and street projects. Involving neighborhoads more in these decisions is a good idea. " Incorporate concepts contained in the Phalen Chain of I.akes Watershed Plan,including: - Use of native sgecies in plantings. - Natural border grasses and plantings on Phalen lakeshore and (apply to) other park areas. - Runoff control. 11 �`��� Council President Thune and Members of the Ciry Council June 12, 1996 - Use o� more environmentally-friendly plantings in general, rather than "flat mow" grooming of all park areas. Commission response: Add a neiv polic}• 6. under Objective 1, �vhich addresses naturnl resot�rce protection, as follolvs: 6. E.zDlore use of the followin� technicta�es where nrczctica! to preserve the Cirv's natural resources: n. Use of native species in plantines: b. Use ofnatirral border zrasses and Dlantings a1on2 shorelines• c. Control of chernical runoff into ponds lakes, streanu and rivers� and d. Avoidance af "fiat mow" ¢roomtn2 in park arens �vhere a more nan�ral look is approAriate. Aistrict 10 Communitv Councii Since District 10's cornments are fairly lengthy and detailed, the Parks Commission response will follow each point in italics and parentheses. In most cases, the Commission agrees with the spirit of the comments but has suggested alternate wording that is more commoniy understood. 1'arks Plan Overview Shanin� Citv Character * p. 7, Objective 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space and �} environmental resources. Environmental resources consist of natural and culmral features and areas. (The Commission prefers ihe term "natural resources"be left, cu is, in att cases. The term "natural resources" is better understood by more people. 'Bnvironment" is a broad term, implying inclusion of all things natural and built. The term "cultural" is also somewhat broad and difficult ro define. The defenition of "natural resources ", according ro the State of Minnesota's Environmenial Rights Laiv, II6B.02, includes historic, scenic, and aesthetic resources as well as those resources of land, water, air, plants, anima(s, etc. This seems like a more appropriate defznition given the focus of the polieies under this objec[ive.) Saint Paul's open space and natural resources provide many benefits. Undeveloped "natural" areas help shape and soften the built environment, provide habitat for plan[s and wildlife, and improve the overall environmental quality of the city. However, the amount of open space in the city is limited, and both it and environtnentai resources are wlnerable to increasing development pressure and �e�Eie� deeradation. (Don't use "environmental resources ", but "degradation" is better than 'pollution".) While much of our remaining open space is in public ownership, park designation does not necessarily protect egex-s�e it nor axd-�aE�a� environmental resources. (Simpl� sentence; stop after "does not necessarilyprotect it".) The Division is continuously confronted with demands to expand recreational opportunities and increase access to developed and undeveloped parkland. (Change agreed to earlier under HPC comments.) Consequently, the City's open space and �a� environmental resources {�eep "natural ") may become wlnerable to unwarranted use and degradation. A conscious effort must be taken to ensure their protection and preservation for enjoyment by futuze 12 ��_� Council President Thune and Members of the City Council Junz 12, 1996 generations. esoeciallv before fumre development takes place. (Disagree, unnecessary qualifzer.) Because neither ecological systems nor cultural features are �s? confined to the eity's boundaries, procection and preservation efforts must be coordinated at a..���} ]areer level. (Disagree, leave sertrence as is.) Policies: (p. 7) i. Mana;e the City's park and recreation system to ensure: a. Preservation and restoration of environmental resources; {replace "environmental" �viih "natural") b. Management of ali parkland and open space in an environmzntally sound and sustainable manner; c. Opportunities for all citizens to enjoy, appreciate, and understand the City's �a�.�} environmenta] areas. (Leave "natttra!".) 2. Provide leadzrship and coordination with federal, state, regional and local authorities to: a. Comolete and maintain an inventorv of environmental resources. includina sike analvsis and evaluation of inteeritv and sienificznce. Data will be integrated with state and federalinventories. evaluations and desienations and coordinated with the Metro Region Forest Resource ManaQement Plan and the CitV's Leeislative Code pertainine [o heritase preservation. (A slightly different version of the ftrst sentence, To do an invenrory of natival and historic resources, was agreed to as part of ihe HPC comments. Delete the Zast senience because it is too detailed,• coordination is impZied in the policy as tivritten.) a- b. Develop mana;ement and protection strategies for endangered species and or sensitive habitats and cultural resources;(no longer needed; "and historical(v imponant structures and features" was added in the FIPC comments above) � c. Provide and coordinate adequace and consistent enforcement of regulations to protect cultural resources, water quality, wetlands, native habitats, aad the river corridor and other surroundine environs. (changes no longer needed, for reasons cited above.) d. Pursue thepossibiiitv of restorin¢ or reconstructin� wetlands within park and ooen soaee areas. (Agree with the addition of d.) 3. Pursue opportunities and partnerships to acquire ]and specifically for open space and �a#�a} environmental (disagree) resource protection accozding to any of (agree) the foliowing criteria: a. Areas containing species included on the State or Federal list of endangered or threatened species; b. Areas representing significant landforms, native plant communities, e� sensitive habitat, or culmral resources; c.... (As stated above, the Commission believes "natural " resources is a better understood term than "environmental" or "cultura! resources ".) 13 a�.�as Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12. 1996 Support and strengthen citywide tree preservation and reforestation effons. a. Establish a Tree Advisorv Board to help oversee the olannins and manaeement of the local communitv forest. (The Ciry Counci( is curreruZy the Ciry's ojficially designated "Tree Advisory Board ". Action step 6 on p. 27, ta review and revise the tree protection ordinarace, should be ezpanded to add "and identify methods of irnprovin; citizen participation in tree management issues ".) " p. 12, Objective 4: Fulfill park development priorities. The park system is continually being developed, a� redeveloped, preserved and rehabilitated. ('preserved" is out of context with what's covered here, "rehabilitated" is fzne) Many projects are necessary to ensure that ep oole ��d'��'-,�R^,Q-=re���;Q�,�; (agree) have adequate access to c�ualitvpark and jagree) recreational opportunities. Others are necessary to modernize park facilities and ensure that they meet current codes. Park development priorities change through the years as environmental and (agree} recreational demands and needs change and the Division must continue to explore opportunicies to meet these needs. However, there are some projects that currently stand out because of their magnitude and potential impact on the entire City reQion. (make it "citv and re2ion") To realize these projects, they mus[ become the primary focus of park development efforts and resources in the coming years. Policies: 11. In the Itegional Parks and Open Space System, the City will give priority to a11 of the foliowing (map) afrer envixonmenial resource inventories have been comoleted (see Obsective i. Polic,y_2a.). (Disagree, unnecessary quali,fier.) a. Completion of the Como Park Master Pian goals and renovation; (Here the Commission suggests "Completion of renovation and tmprovement of Como Park. Como Zoo. and Como conservatorv. " This gets away frorn a spec�c reference to the master plan, which has been a source of disagreement.) b. Completion of plans to improve the riverfront (see Obj. 2, policy 7); c. Development of recreational trails (see Obj. 3). �` p. 15, Objective 5: Enhance the City and its neighborhoods. Parks and recreation facilities enhance the qual'aty of the Clty and its neighborhoods. ...In addition, the value of parks as neighborhood amenities is directiy related to how safe they are perceived to be and how attractive they appear. However, neighborhood concerns about pezceived negative impacts, such as when a recreational traii is proposed adjacent to private property, need to be balanced by the recreational needs of the eCity �°��a°��.�-�-a-m,e}� region. (Suggest "the citv and re¢ion".) The City must continue to work co foster appropriate design, maintenance, and community anvoivement to ensure parks enhance neighborhoods as well as serve ^�'°•°��°� the broader gublic. (Suggest making it, "serve the broader pubtic's recreafional needs".) 14 o��_�as Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 Policies: 14. Provide site and facility design, rehabilitation, and retro-fitting that: a. Meets or exceeds accepted standards for safety, security, durabiliry, maintenance and accessibility; b. Meets user needs for support facilities such as parking, transoona!ion. (Suggest °circulation and parking".) lighting, drinking water, restrooms, si�nage; c. Respects and e�a�.�s preserves the natural and historic envirorunznt; d. Respects and enhances (Suggest deleting "and enhances" from both c. and d.) neighborhood identity; e. Minimizes impact on surzoundino neighborhoods. 17. Involve neighborhood residents, park usecs, and communiry groups in plannin�, (agree) development, prooramming, and maintenance of parks. (see Obj. 10, policy 36) " p. 21, Objective 10: Foster opportunities for on-going community and citizen involvement and feedback. Involving citizens in decisions regarding park lanninQ, (agreeJ development, operations, and maintenance gives them a sense of ownership, responsibility, and control. Residents play an important role in helpin� staff identify park aad recreation needs specific to their neighborhood. In 1990 the City took a significani step in providing a forum for citizen involvement in the lannin , (agree) management, operations, and development of the park and recreation sys(em by establishing the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission. �^�� � Expandin� support for citizen participation (Continuing is a better word than expanding here; horovever, techniques for better supporting citizen participation need to be explored.) must be provided to ensure t�tei� that (agree) involvement is meaningful and effective and has a clear impact on the quality of park and recreation services. Policies: 36. Involve all constituents (residents, park users, interest groups) in setting balanced priorities for plannine, development, programming, maintenance, use of facilities, and other park and recreation matters. (agree) a. Use of the Citv's Early Notification S�tem Policv and Procedure will be used. b. All nearb�district councils will be invited in the site review nrocess from its beeinnin� c. Detailed minutes of all Parks and Recreation Commission and committee meetines ~ will be available. (Proposed a., b., and e.are too detailed for inclusion in the policies. To accomplish the intent, suggest adding an action step under "Communications and Coordinadon" on p. 31 stating, "Review and improve stratezies for noti in and involvin¢ consatuents in settinz balancedpriorities for olanninz, development, prozramminz maintenance. use of facilities. and other Dark and recreation-related matiers. (36)) 15 ac�-3� Council President Thune and Members of the City Council June 12, 1996 Conclusion _ The Parks and Recreation Commission approved these recommendations at its 7une 12, 1996 meetin� by a unanimous vote. The public testimony and the Commission's responses �cilf appear oa the City Council's July 10 agenda for consideration. The City Council is requested to zdopt the Saint Paui Parks and Recreation Plmi, as amended, replacin� the existing 198� plan as a chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan. If you have any questions about these materials before the 7uly lOth meeting, please feel free to cali 12oberC Piram, Director, Parks and Recreation Division (266-6404), or ponna Drummond of the Plannin� Division staff (266-6556). cc: Mayor Norm Coleman Robert Piram, Superintendent, Parks and Recreation Division Ken Ford, Planning Administrator Donna Drummond, Planning Division Public Hearing Testifiers 16 � : .; � � This draR of the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Plan was developed by the Park Planning ' Task Force, appointed by the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Parks and Recreation � Commission, based on public hearing testimony, recommended some revisions to the draft plan. The Commission's recommended additions are underlined; deletions are crossed ouT. This draft of the plan will now be considered by the Mayor and City Council for final � adoption as part of the City's Comprehensive Plan. � � � C 1 1 The Ciry of Saint Paul does not discriminate on the basis of disabiliry, �ace, sex, sexual oc affectional orientation, age, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, marital stams, religion, veteran status, or status with regard to public assistance in admission to, or treatment or employment in, its programs oL acuvities. , � � / � � � � r � I � Contents Introduction Goals Assumptions Major Strategies Shaping City Character Building Community Innovative Focusing of Resources Implementation 1996-1997 Action Plan Inventory Maps of the Parks and Recreation System Credits Maps Major Open Space and Natural Areas Major River Access Points and Views Recreational Trail System Regional Parks and Open Space Priorities Local Parks and Recreation System Priorities City Parks and Parkways Specialized Recreation Facilities City Recreation Centers Parks and Recreation Plan q(� - 32.� 1 2 3 4 5 17 22 26 27 35 39 6 9 11 13 14 35 36 37 i 1 � Introduction ' � � !J � � � Parks Plan �verview Goals: Responsive Park and Recreation Services Safe, Attractive, and Accessible Park and Recreation Facilities Pazks Which EiIl�ance Neighborhood Stability and Cohesiveness Balanced Pazk Development Assumptions: Tncreasingly Diverse Population, Needs, and Demands Higher Expectations of Public Service L'united Physicai Expansion of the Pazk and Recreation System Budget Limitations and Potential Reductions Major Strategies: Shaping City Character - 9 findings, 6 obj., 24 policies Building Community - 7 findings, 5 obj., 18 policies Innovative Focusing of Resources - 9 findings, 4 ob}., 14 policies Shapiug Citv Character �� Obj. 1: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the ciry's open space and natura] resources. Obj. 2: Expand physical and visual access to the River. Obj. 3: Develop pazk and open space connections. Obj. 4: Fulfill pazk development priorities. Obj. 5: Enhance the City and its neighborhoods. Obj. 6: Foster the economic development potential of the City's park and recreation system. BirildinE Commtmitv Obj. �: Encourage enforcement and operationai efforts which promote safe and secure access to and use of pazks. Obj. 8: Provide recreation facilities and prograznming that contributes to stable neighborhoods. Obj. 9: Ideniify and remove bazriers to participation. Obj. 10: Foster opportunities for on-going community and citizen 3nvolvement and feedback. Obj. I1: Promote cultural awareness. Innovative Focusin¢ of Resources Obj. 12: Estabiish prioriues for use and distribution of city resources. Obj. 13: Increase utilization of supplemental resources. Obj. 14: Improve utilization of human resources. Obj. 15: Improve management of resources. Implementation Pazks and Recreation Plan , i ����a5 INTRODUCTION i �' �- ' The Pazks and Recreation Plan, a chapter oF the Ciry's Comprehensive Plan, is a statement of official city policy w guide park and recrea6on development, operaaons, and maintenance acdviaes. The plan pmvides a comprehensive framework for meering the needs, challenges, and opportunities confron6ng the Ciry's parks and iecreation system. This is one of several elements that comprise Saint Paul's Comprehensive Pian. While most of the policies in this p]an relate specifically to the pazk and recreaffon system, they may influence - or be influenced by - policies contained in other comprehensive plan elemerns. The new plan was undertaken at the request of the Saint Paul Pazks and Recreation Commission, to update ihe e�cisting plan thaz was adopted in 1985. In requesting the new plan, the Parks Commission was interested in addressing a broader range of issues than those covered in the 1985 plan which focused on delivery of rec�eational services in response to significant budget reAucdons. I In March 1992, the Parks Commission appointed the Park Planning Task Force to work witfi Pazk and Recreafion Division and Planning Division staff to update the plan. The task force was comprised of representaflves from both the Pazks Commission and the Planning Commission, as well as ciazens with various interesis and backgrounds related to parks and ' recreadon. The task force held monthly public meetings to gamer public input on issues to be addressed in the new plan. Indian Mounds Park � f � Parks arid Recreatim Plan GOALS Through a process of community input, several goals were defined to help guide new pazk and recreation policy and shape a broad vision of what Saint Paul's puk and recreation system can and should strive to be: RESPONSIVE PARK AND RECRF.ATION SERVICES. The recreational needs and expectations of Saint Paul residents are widely varied and subject to change. This is due in part to Saint PauI's population becoming more racialIy and cu[turally diverse and the increased rate at which recreauon trends change. The Pazks and Recreafion Division must strive to deliver services in a fle�ble mauner which allows timely response to unforeseen needs, trends, and opportunities. The Division must also position itself to effecfively anucipate needs, trends and opportctnities. Sn�, A�r�rxnc�, nrm AccESS�LE Pn� arm REC�nTCOx Fncu.rr�s. The Ciry must ensure that park and recreakon facilifies remain safe, attracflve, and accessible through effecdve design, maintenance, and staffing. It is also important to recon ;�e that safety issues extend beyond pazk boundaries; access to and from pazk and recreation facilities must also be safe. The Pazks Division, the Police Depaztment and communiry groups must closely coordinate efforts to keep pazks and neighborhoods, safe and attractive, and to ensure all members of our community have access to recrealion oppormniues. PARKS WIIICH ENHANCE NEIGHBORHOOD STABILITY AND COHESIVENES5. Stable and cohesive neighborhoods, long a trademazk of Saint Paul, are being threatened by increased poverty, social isolation, racial tensions, and feaz for personal safety. 'I`6e Pazks Commission, in their report, Neighborhoods In Transition, concluded that recreation centers, and pazks in general, can play a vital role in neighborhood stabilization and community building efforts. The City must strive to sirengthen wmmuniry involvement and build social networks to reinforce pazks and recreation centers as focal points of neighborhood interaction, security, and pride. BALANCED PARK DEVELOPMENI: Protecting open space and natural resources and accommodating recrearion demands aze two of the Division's lughest responsibiliues. Both ue essenfial to our high quality parks and recreation system. However, as demand for recreauon opportunities increases, so does the potenGal to impact the Ciry's natural environment. To protect and preserve significant natucal resources in our efforts to meet recreaaonal demands, we must understand how recreational uses and park development affect the natural environment and determine how human activity and access should be managed to achieve and maiatain a balanced system. Mississippi River Boulevard Pazks and Recreation Plan , � � ASSUMPTIONS This plan is based on several assumptions about our future challenges: INCREASINGLY DIVERSE POPULATION� NEEDS� AND DEMANDS. �i�`�� � The City's changing and increasingly diverse population presenu significant challenges reguding demand and delivery of recreation oppommiries. There is growing demand for recreauon oppommities to accommodate all ages and genders. Our increasing ethnicity provides ogportuniries to expand cuLtural awazeness, but also presents a challenge to overcome language and recial banieis. The population generally has become mare health conscious and environmemally awaze which has led to � an increased interest in recreation for exercise and recreation opportunities that allow interaction with the natural environment This diversity of interests and demands reflecu a significant broadening of the traditional scope of recreation provided in past decades which concenhated on boys athlefics. The City's population is expected to become increasingly � diverse. Likewise, demand for recreation will likely increase and diversify. To respond, the Pazks and Etecreation Division will need to become more inclusive and continually assess who they aze serving, what their needs aze, and how best to meet theu needs. � Como Pool � Rain Tree � � � � HIGHER EXPECTATIONS OF PUBLIC SERVICE. Senior Aerobics Recreation Center Many adults today grew up with programmed recreation and continue to expect services for themselves, and their children. With more discretionary time and resources to spend on leisure activiues and an expanded spectrum of reczeation opportunities, demand for recreation has grown. At the same time, hectic schedules, family obligations, and travel costs have resulted in demand for more flexible and convenient recreation opportuniaes. Faced with limited resources, our response to demands must be based on a careful assessment and prioritization of the broader needs of all City residents. We must continue to seek opportunities to become more flexible through coordination and partnerships within the Division, with other City departments and with other recreation praviders. LIMITED PHYSICAL EXPANSION OF THE PARK AND RECREATION SYSTEM. HistoricaL development pattems have resulted in the existing--somewhat uneven--distribution of park and recreafion facilities. However, limited city funds and limited available land restrict our abiliry to develop new park and recreation facilities. Faced with limited resources, the City may not be able to meet all demands for additional facilities and(or services. To that extent, it will become increasingly important for the Division to explore non-traditional approaches and engage in partnerships with other organizations to ensure that all recreational resources within the Ciry, whether public or private, aze efficiently and effectively utilized and park and recreation opportunities are readily accessible to all Saint Paul residents. BUDGET LIMITATIQNS AND PQTENTIAL REDUCTIONS. Funding for parks and recreadon hu decreased at regional, state, and federal levels over the past decade. While local funding has remained relaUvely constant, increased public demand for new facilides, services, and replacement or rehabilitalion of aging facilities have contributed to increased funding demands. Maintenance and operating costs have also increased due to construction of larger buildings, deteriaration of aging buildings, use of outdated vehicles and equipment, and acquisition of more pazkland. While the Ciry has been consistently responsive to demands for new facilities, funding to ensure that facilities aze fully utilized and properly maintained has often fallen short. The City has a substantial investment in its pazk and recreation system and must recognize its responsibiliry to maintain and enhance the system for present and firture use. The availability of resources to operate and mainiain the pazk and recreation system will confinue to be subject to economic fluctuations and budget cutbacks To ensure the ltigh quality of our park and recreation facilifies and services we must acknowledge their value and make a commitment to sustain them. Parks and Recreation Plan , MAJOR STRATEGIES � The Plan proposes three strategies to guide future development, operauons and maintenance of the Saint Paul pazks and � recreation system: � SHAPING CITY CHARACTER This strategy recognizes that parks, parkways, and natural features lend form, chazacter, and idenGry which enhance the City � and its neighborhoods. It aiso recognizes that the e�sting system of pazks, parkways, and naturai resoarces provides a strong framework to build on. The policies in this strategy fceus on preservafion, maintenance and development of the pazk � and recreation system and the City's natunl resources. Irvine Park BUII,DING COMMUNITY The strategy recognizes that pazks and recreation Eacilides funcdon as neighborhood focal points, not jnst physically and aesthetically, but also as the center of communiry activity and life. Policies in this strategy focus on suengthening the role of parks and recreatio� faciliaes by making sure they aze safe, accessible, and responsive to communiry needs, and by providing opportwnties to bring people together, foster communiry involvement, and build a community support system. INNOVATIVE FOCUSING OF RESOURCES This snategy recognizes that budgets aze limited and resources must be carefully managed to improve efficiency and effecriveness. It also recognizes the need to explore ways to stretch e�cisting resources, idenrify new resources, and build parmerships. Policies in this strategy focus on setting priorities, and improving uffiization and management of resources. � � L � � � Parks and Rxreation Plan ' � Strategy: Shaping City Character �t� - ,�5 � The Mississtppi River. Steep wooded bZuffs and ravines. Tree lined streets and parkways. Como. Phalen. Highland. Indian Mounds. Cherokee. Battle Creek. Alt conjure images of Saint Paul and its neighborhoods. We identify with these images - people, places, events, experiences. These images re}lect positively on the qualiry of life we enjoy--and eapect--in Saint Paul. � The existing nenvork of parks and parkways in Saint Pauf provides a strong foundntion to build an, and opportunities ta enhance the system must be continually pursued. The Parks and Recreation Division must continue to explore ways to enhanre and preserve the Ciry's natural environment and provide opportunities for people to berome more aware of the � natural environment. The Division must seek out opportunities to make connections and fi(1 gaps in aur park and open spare system—o ensure park facilities are readily accessib(e throughout the Ciry. And the Division must ensure rhat parks fulfill their potential to enhance their surroundings, and the entire Ciry. � � � , Findings: 1. The existing park system contains appmxunately 4000 acres of parkland, 37 miles of pazkways, and 134 buildings. A breakdown of pukland by pazk type reveals that 65 percent of our parkland is devoted to regional pazks, 17 percen[ community gazks, t4 percent neighbarhood pazks, and 4 percent miscellaneous small parks and omamental spaces. Overall, Saint Paul contributes 26 percent to the total acreage of pazkland in Ramsey County. etc.) have been replaced or rehabilitated tluough the yeazs, several remain in need of rehabilitation or zeplacement. The City has a considerable investmeni in existing park facilities and timely maintenance is essen6al to ensure that they aze uplized to their full potenual. 5. The distribution of existing parkland is somewhat uneven due to historical development patterns. Likewise, exisung development limits opportunities to acqaire vacant pazcels of sufficient size to create new pazks and open space, particulazly in dense, older sections of the City where the need for more open space is gteatest. 6. Saint Paul's network of pazks and pazkways aze the outcome of efforts through the yeazs to develop a system of cormected pazks within the City, including links to the Minneapolis park system. This system provides a suong foundation for further development of our recreational trail system. 7. I,ocal, regional, and state surveys indicate that tl�e popularity of ffails and envuonmentally-oriented activities such as nature hikes and environmental educaflon, have steadily increased over the past deca¢e. S. The Mississippi River contributes 29 miles of riverfront shoreline to Saini Pau1. This represents the longest stretch of riverfront of any municipality in the metropolit� azea and is one of the Ciry's most significant amenities and resources. Considerable amounts of shoreline ate of public pazkland providing opportunities for river access. There aze also 57 miles of bluff edees within the citv. 30 of which are directiv along the river. Lookine at the lareer Mississipni River Vallev, fullv one- tturd of the cirv. or approximatelv 18 squaze miles. is located within the Mississivni River Valle� 9. Saint Paut's gazk system contains many resources thaz strengthen our env'uonmental education and interpretive potential. Most notably, the close prozimiry of Como Zoo and Conservatory offers a unique opportunity to provide a combined botany and zoology program. Other ueas containing significant environmental education resources include: Lilydale, Crosby Farm, Swede Hollow, and Indian Mounds pazk. � Parkland by type � 2. Approximately 11 percent of the total land area of Saint Paul is designated parkland. With the City becoming more fully developed, pazkland and open space have become more valuable resources. 3. Between 1970 and 1987 the amount of public parkland increased by aimost 24 perceni, te an addition of 746.9 acres. Much of this land cansists of patcels that remained undeveloped because they were difficult or unprofitable to develop. Given ]imited resources, it is unlikely that the City will acquire lazge amounts of parkland in the foreseeable future. However, opportunities for acquisition such as abandoned railroad lines and tax-forfeirure propetties will continue to be explored. 4. Saint Paul's park system is over 100 years old. While many pazk facilities (buildings, playgrounds, fields, Pazks azW Recreation Plan Suaiegy: Shapmg Gry Character MA70R OPEN SPACE AND NATURAL AREAS POLICY 1 1 1 { t I 1 1 r-- Pazks and Recreaiion Ylan (� [� 1 � � � � ��- �5 Objective l: Encourage protection, preservation, and regeneration of the city's open space and natzcral resources Saint Paul's open space and natural resources provide many benefits. Undeveloped "natural" azeas help shape and sofren the built environmenz, provide habitat for planu and wIldlife, and improve the overall envuonmental quality of the CiTy. Aowever, the amount of open space in the Ciry is limited and wlnerable to increasing development pressures and pollution. While much of our remaining open space is in public ownership, park deslgnation does not necessarily protect open space and namral resources. The Division is continuously confron[ed with demands to expand recreational opportunides and increase access to undeveloped pazkland. Consequenfly, the Ciry's open space and narural resources may become vulnerable to unwarranted use and degradation. A conscious and concerted effort must be taken to ensure their protecfion and preservation for enjoyment by fuhue generations. Because ecological systems aze not confined to the City's boundaries, protecrion and preservarion efforts must be coordinated on a regional level. Policies: 1. "'`�� ^�'-� •°�" ^""ana e�ES the Ciri's azk and � �_•• S P recreation system to ensure: a. Preservation and restoration of environmen[al resources; � b. Management of ail parkland and open space in an env'uonmentally sound and sustainable manner; � c. Opporiunides for all citizens to enjoy, appreciate, and understand the City's natural azeas. t 2. Provide leadership and coordinarion with federal, �' state, regional and local authorities to: a. Develop management and protection � strategies for endangered species andlor sensitive habitats; b. Provide adequate and consistent enforcement of � regulations to protect water quality, wetlands, narive habitats, and the river corridor. 3. Pursue opportunities and partnerships to acquire land specifically for open space and natural resource protection according tn the following criteria: a. Areas containing species included on the State or Federal list of endangered or threatened species; b. Areas represendng significant landforms, native plant communities, or sensitive habltat; c. Areas that connect existing components of the open space network; and d. Areas adjacent to existing pazkland/open space. 4. ''''--��uppon and strengthen citywide tree preseroation and ieforestation efforts. 5. Take advantage of opnortunities that arise from redevelopment activities to add to or enhance the Cirv's onen space and natural resources. Prioritv will be �iven to on�ortunities that do not add uubliclv-owned and develo»ed_pazkland that will reauire additional vublic maintenance or o4eratine expenses. Parks and Recrea[ion Plan Crosby Park Srcategy. Shapmg Gry Charncter Objective 2: Expand physical and visual access to the River The Mississippi River is Saint Paul's foremost naturai. Iustoricai. and reczeational resource. People enjoy its picturesque qualiry and the broad vistas it affords. People want to interact with it directly—to touch it, to e�cp2ore its banks and currenzs. R'hile visual access to the river is generally good from public parks and bluff top vantage poinu, physical access to the river is more limited, paniculazly in the downtown azea-. but also in several neiehborhoods where rivo or tluce-block gaps keep peonle from eettine to the river. Increasing downtown riverfront access has been consistently identified as a priority in the City's eactensive planning efforts for riverfinnt redevelopment and should continue to be pursued. Opuomwiries for connectine the Cit �}�'s neighborhoods to the river valley should atsa be exalored. Policies: 5. ''''-°=��pPursue opportunities to provide public access to the riverfront in a manner tfiat is aestheticaily compatihle with the riverfront and protects environmentally sensitive areas. 6. ''''•°z-�-�:"s'-o°Encourage riverfronT development that is environmentally compatible with its unigue locaYion and fosters a pazk-like riverfront character. neighborhood connections to the River through: a. Completion of riverhont projects which improve access to the River (see Obj. 4, policy Il); b. Preservarion and enhancement of significant river and downtown skyline views for the up blic wherever possible.(Map) c. Limitadons on building heights and setback encroachment in areas that would obstruct public access and views ro[he River. '''"°�Strengthen downmwn and Mississippi River Blvd. scenic overlook Parks and Reaea4on Plan �J � MAJOR RIVER ACCESS POIN'I'S AND VIEWS POLICY 7 1 1 � � [� I 1 � f3 1 �� ' �� Parks and Recreanon Plan 9 Strffiegy:Shaping G�y Chaacter Objective 3: Develop park and open space connections Park and open space connecfions provide the means for moving between pazks, moving within pazks, and geffing to pazks, in a safe, convenient, and enjoyable manner. While wnnections usually take the form of trails, linear parks or pazkways, sidewalks and streets providing access to pazks through neighborhoods, aze also impor[ant connections. As such, it is essenrial to coordinate and integrate our trails and pazkways with the City's network of sidewalks and streets to provide continuous, convenient, and safe access to, between, and within, pazks. Policies: 8. �Si�ik�-gPursue opportuniUes to expand �s the Ci 's recreational trail system and give priority to development of uails which: a. Provide commections between and within the City's pazks, trails in adjacent municipalities, and the Regional trail system; b. Coordinate with aa�-sugget� the nerivork of on-street bicycle �s lanes and up blic sidewalks; c. Utilize existing pazkways and/or publicly owned ProP�Y ���d d. Comnlete the arincival recreational ffail systems in Saint Paul, includinQ the Saint Paul Grrand Round Loop. Mississinpi River Trails. Canitol Route. and the Phalen Creek Trail (see mavl. 9. 10. ' recreational traiis that: a. Meet or exceed accepted standazds for safety, security, durabiliry, maintenance and accessibility.- as defined bv AASHTO (Am. Assoc. of State Highwav and Transaortation Officiais); b. Meet user needs for support facitities such as Iighting, druilcing water, restrooms, bike racks, signage; c. Respect and enhance the natural envimnment; d. Min;m;�e �pacts on surrounding neighborhoods. ''''-°���ontinue to enLance ffie Ci 's its pazkway system through: a. Appropriate design and landscaping; b. Liwitations on uses within and adjacent to pazkways to ensure compatibiliry and preserve aesfhetic character; c, Limitations on vafFc speed and vehicle access; d. Provision of sepazate paths foz pedestrians and bicyclisu; e. Provision of on-street bike lanes. Pazks and Recreanon Plan Ip Sva[ery: Shapmg City Charac[er � � Objective 4: Fulfill park development priorities q�n "�� � The park system is continually being developed and redeveloped. Many projecrs are necessary to ensure that neighborhood residents have adequate access to recreationai oppommiaes. Others aze necessary to modernize pazk facilities and ensure that they meet current codes. Pazk developmem prioriries change through the years as recreational demands and needs change and the Division must continue to explore opportuniries to meet these needs. However, there aze some projects that cuzrenfly stand out because of their , magnitude and potenrial unpact on the entire City. To realize these projects, they must become the primary focus of park development efforts and resources in the coming yeazs. �� �1 Policies: 1L In the Regional Pazks and Open Space System, the City will give prioriry Co all of the following (map) 13. a. Completion of Como Pazk Master Plan and renovation; b. Completion of plans to improve the � river&ont (see Obj. 2, policy 7); c. Development of recreadonal trails (see Objective 3). � � � � ' 12. In the L.ocal Pazks and Recreation System the City will give ptioriry To all of Yae following (map): a. Comple6on of Community Recreation Centets (North Dale and Battle Creek); b. Focus on upgrading identified Neighborhoods in Transition centers; c. Provision of �ear�eea& facilides to accommodate emerging sports and other activities. d. Redevelopment of Highland Pazk; e. ' ; Imnrovement of facIlities that snnnort opoortuniues fox coordination and narmersh'��,, Como Park Conservatory Pazks and Aecreation Plan 12 £ Upgrading of Swede Hollow Pazk. Pursue opportunities and joint use pazmerships to acquire or provide access to land for pazks and recreation development according to the following criteria: a. Priority will be given to azeas that are under-served d�e to distance to existing pazks, population density, or inadequate size and condition of existing neazby park(s); b. Land pazcels must be of adequate size to accommodate proposed development; c. Availability and commitment of resources, public and/or private, to develop operate,and maintain new park facilities; d. Gifrs of suitable land will be accepted when resources, public and/or private, are idenrified [o maintain the ptoperty; e. Conformity with other applicable public policy. Strategy: Shapmg City Chazacrer REGIONAL PARKS AND OPEN SPACE PRIORTTIES POLICY 11 ' ��� � i �"''� j ' Q�Q� � I = � l� ' ' � � r-- — -- '� ' � ( ��\��•i� I taY4wl"�. �v� 'b � �r :R�•�., .' . .,..,. ,=rfi t ��� � . .'�,�'. ['. € E m x � � �������1�l� IA4 �1�'J j.11:iL� � � � r � 0 ��i� •� Completion of Como Park Master Plan p Completion of r'NeArom improvemer� plar�s � Development of recreational traiis � --� Parks and Recreauon Plan 13 ' ! 1 � �, 1 f � F t f l � F 1 1 f � � � � � � G ��, 3d5 LOCAL PARKS AND RECREATTON SYSTEM PRIORITIES PoLICY 12 Parks and Reaeation Plan r-- 14 Develop year round sports recreation facility (location to be determined) �� Ff �1 1 1 1 1 I � 1 1 1 1 � � � Objective 5: Enhance the City and its neighborhoods Parks and recreation facilities enhance the qvality of the City and its neighborhoods. They function as the public's "backyazd", giving residems places to play, socialize, and relax. Attractive, well-maintained pazk and recreation facilides become focal points of neighborhood pride and identity. In some cases, pazks can pose co�ems for adjacent property owners. Some activiries that occur in pazks can create noise, uafFic, and other problems for adjacent property owners, thereby diminishing apgreciation of a pazk as a neighborhood asset, Tn addition, the value of parks as neighborhood ameni6es is d'uectly related to how safe they aze perceived to be and how amactive they appeaz. However, neighborhood concems about perceived negarive impacts, such as when a recreational trail is proposed adjacent to private property, need to be balanced by the recreational needs of ciry residents as a whole. The Ciry must continue to work to foster appropriate design, maintenance, and communiry involvement to ensure pazks enhance neighborhoods as well as serve cirywide needs. Policies: 14. ''''-°��'m'�Provide site and facility design, rehabilitation, and retro-fitting thaz: a Meezs or exceeds accepted standazds for safety, security, durability, mainrenance and accessibility; b. Meets user needs for support facilities such as pazking, lighting, drinking water, reshooms, signage; c. Respects and enhances the nanual and historic environment; d. Respects and enhances neighborhood idenrity; e. Minimizes impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. Harriet Bishop tot lot at Harriet Islrznd Pazks and Recceation Plan 15. Provide resources to support site and facffity maintenance that: a. Is appropriate to the size and use of the EacIliry; b. Enhances visibiliry and attracriveness; c. Maximizes safery and securiry. 16. Provide resources to ensure timely repair, maintenance, and/or replacement of pazk facIliries to *�+�n;mi�e acciderns and safety hazazds and improve appearance. 17. Involve neighborhood residents, park users, and community groups in development, programming, and maintenance of parks. (see Obj. 10, policy 36) 15 Sicategg:Shaping CiTy Chacac[er � ! � � � � i � � r � � { �� - � 5 Objeclive 6: Foster the economic development potential of the City's park and recreation system The Saint Paul pazk and recreation system plays a key role in making the City a great place to live, work, and visit. Parks enhance the physical appearance of the Ciry and contribute to increased property values. Parks provide unique facilities and host a variety of recreauonal and cultural evenu that attract people to Saint Paul—to visit, to do business, and to live. In addidon, recreation programs and acriviries help build life-long sldlls and behavior that foster work readiness and general human developmen[. Poiicies: 18. Pursue opportunities to work in pazmership with other public and private organizations to program and host public special events. 19. Provide adequate resources for programming and staffing of faciliaes and events that draw visitors and promote tourism. "Sparky" show Camo Park Outdoor Corscert Haraiet Island Parks and Recreation Plan � 21. Pursue publiclprivate partnerships to develop mumally beneficiai service packages and joint promotional programs. 22. Ptovide structured recreation activities and community education opportunities that build life-long and work readiness skills. 23. Pursue onQortunities toprovide familv-oriented facilities and attractions thaC encoura¢e families to snend their leisure time in Saint Paul. Sttategy: 5haping City CharadeF Music Under Glass Como Conservatory 20. Encourage progranuning of downtown and riverfront pazks for cultural festivals and other public events. � � Strategy: Building Community Our neighborhoods have experienced changes over the past few decades which affect our sense of belonging and � cannection. People aeed places where they can go to interact with other members of their communiry. Places where they feel familiar, comfortable, and safe. Parks, and particularly recreation centers, play a vital role in bringing neighborhoods � together. To ensure that parks continue to contribute positively to our communiry, their role must be expanded and strengthened and barriers to p¢rticipation must be overcome. Parks and recreaaon centers must be safe, and equally important, people must be able to get to parks safely. Increased effons are needed to expand outreach. awareness, and understanding of people with different cultural backgrounds, and peop[e of all age groups. Building on ¢ strong tradition of � citizen participaaon, continuing opportunities must be provided to foster effecrive citizen involvement in park operarions, development and maintenance. C� � � � F L_ ' � Findings: 1. Several trends chazacterize Saint PauI's population, which in tum, have an impact on the de]ivery of pazk and recreation services. These include: a. Saint Paul's population is becoming more diverse - racially aztd ethnically. $etween 1980 and 1990 the Ciry's minority population increased by 80 percent; increasing from 10 percent in I980 ro 18 percent in 1990. The lazgest increase occurred in the Asian population whose shaze increased by 6.1 percent. In addirion, 50 percent of school aged children currently in the City aze non-white. (frndings coniinued) Parks and Recreation Plan j'] Stra[egy: Building Communiry EI Rio Vista building addition ground breaking i ! i � b. 4Vhile the senior population has remained fairly constant for the past several decades, ihe number of 30-39 year olds is at the highest level since 1940. As a result, our senior population will likely increase over the next 30 to 40 years. c. VJhile the current adolescent population (10-19) is at a 90 year low, the number of children under 10 has increased and will likely lead to a lazger teenage population in the next decade. i 1 i 1 1 � Pe�cent ot age group � by popuiation Pazks and Recreacion Plan a� - �,5 d. The avera�e household size in Saint Paul continues to decrease. The number of non- faznily households (single individuals or non- related persons living together) make up 43 percent of all households. In adffirion, 29 percent of all households with children aze headed by a single woman. t9so Source U.S. Census Z, Changing demographics and other social and economic factors have resulted in an increase in demand for social service oriented progranis at recreation centers. 3. The Saint Pau1 Pazks and Recreation Commission's 1992 report A Strategy for Neighborhoods in Transition concludes that recreation centers should play a vital role in neighborhood stabilization and community buiiding efforts. 4. The Citv continues to classifv its 42 recreafion centers accordine to the three-tier svstem of: cowmunity recreation centers, neighborhood recreation centers. and nart-6me recreation centers. However, altemative staffine models aze beinQ explored, such as the "nei�hborhood service deliverv team." which would better match available recteauon center staff and communitv education staff to differing community needs and nrogram size. 5.4. Awazeness and concern ahout crime in the ciry has increased. Particulazly troubling is ffie increased involvement of youth and the increasing randomness of crime. While these trends presem a challenge to the entire city, they present a specific need for secure and safe pazks and access to park facilities. 6.� Perceptions of crime and feaz of crime affect decisions people make about whether to use pazk facilities and how to get to pazks safely. 7.� The majoriry of problems in Saim Paul pazks involve drinking, vandalism, vehicle break-ins, and loitering. The number of reported crime incidents in pazks has increased over the past few yeazs, in part due to improved reporting and record keepin�. m Svatea : Building Corzm�umry Objective 7: Encourage enforcement and oper¢lional efforts which promote safe and secure access to and use of parks Increasing crime rates present a challenge to the entire city, including its parks. While Saim Paul pazks remain relarively safe, the number of reported crime incidents has increased over the past few years. These trends impact users perceived degee of safery and therefore the use of park facilities. It is also unportant to recognize that safery concems extend beyond pazk bovndaries and need to be addressed within the context of the sunounding neighborhood. Policies: 23. Provide adequate staffmg of park facilities to 25. Foster effecrive communicauon and coordination maximize safery and security. between Division staff, pazk securiry, police officers, and neighborhood groups to improve awareness and 24. Provide continuing support for pazk securiry responsiveness ro pazk and neighborhood safety and programs and safety responsiveness and awareness security issues. progams. Objective 8: Provide recreation facilities and programming that contributes to stable neighborhoods Concem abou[ accelerated change and instability within Saint Paul's neighborhoods inspired ffie Pazk and Recreadon Commission's study A Strategy for Neighborhoods in Transipon. One canclusion of that study was that recreation centers aze the only public, neighborhood-based service providers readily accessible, and belonging to all members of the commaniry. By strengtherring and expanding the traditional role of recreation centers, particularly at the identified Neig}tborhoods in Transition centers, they will become neighborhood focal poims and key componems of the neighborhood network. Policies: 26. Provide recrearion programming that helps buIld a sense of community through: a. Responsiveness to the diverse needs and desires of residems; b. Enhancement and celebradon of neighhorhood identity; c. Improved ouneach to all residents, including those not currentiy using recreation services. 27. Support use of recreation centers to host funcaons and events sponsored by community organizauons, service providers and neighborhaod residenis. 28. Enwurage cooperative facility arrangements and joint use agreements with other service providers that contribute to improved service and access for the public. Night Moves at Humboldt Pazks and Recrearion Ylan I9 Smmegy: Building CommuniTy i � � � � lJ � i � �� ����5 Objective 9: Identify and remove barriers to participation There are many rypes of baniers that discourage residents from using pazk services and faciliries. Physical barriers such as busy sueets, the river, rail road tracks, and stairs can hinder access to pazk facilities. Social barriers such as racial or age prejudice, language differences, and insensitiviry towazd people with disabilities may result in cer[ain groups of people beSnL excluded from use of some pazk services, or beina unawaze of services offered. Economic batriers such as fees or equipment chazges may result in participauon costs that are too high for some members of our community. Program limitations and rime constraints may also Qtesent harriers to participarion. Overcoming these barriers is necessary to ensure park and recreation opportunities aze available to all segments of our population. Policies: 24. Provide for timely implementation of the Americans 32. Ensure development adjacent to pazks does not in with Disabilities Act (ADA). any way cxeate a barriei to public access, use, or enjoyment of a park faciliry. 30. Maintain public access to parks and recteation facilities, services, a�d programs thraugh: a. Establishment of a fee policy and review process that ensures fees and equipment charges do not create barriers to participation; b. E�courage the MTC and other nansit providers to improve coordinadon, convenience, and affordability of transit access to puks and recreation programs and faciliries; c. Work with Public Works, the Police, district councils, schools and others to identify and promote "safe routes° to park facilities (see Obj. 3, policy 8). d. Provide directional signage for pazks. 31. Provide for safe accommodation of pedestrians, and bicyc]isCS and other trail users on all bridges. Soccer at McDonough Recreation Center 33. Ensure staff aze prepazed to work with a diverse public through: a. Recruitment and training of staff and volunteers who aze sensiuve to the City's park users, including ethnic and language barriers; b. Recmitment and retention of people of color for staff and volunteer positions. 34. Impiove outreach efforts by fos[ering: a. Strategic targefing of promotional efforts; b. Continuous, on-going public information progzams; c. Effective joint promotional efforts; and d. Effective distribution of public information materials. 35. Provide recreadon programs and services at times convenient to the community. 2� Pazks and Recreation Plan Stra[egy Building Commumty Objective I0: Foster opportunities for on-going community and citizen involvement and feedback Involving citizens in decisions regazding pazk development, operafions, and maintenance gives them a sense of ownership, responsibiliry, and control. Residents play an important mle in helping staff identify park and recreation needs specific to their neighborhood. In 1990 the Ciry took a significant step in providing a forum for citizen involvement in the management, operaGons, and development of the pazk and recreation system by establishing the Saint Paul Pazks and Recreation Commission. Continuing support for citizen participation must be provided to ensure their involvement is meaningful and effective and has a clear impact on the qualiry of park and recreaEion services. PO11C1CS: 36. '""��I;,volve all constiruents {residents, pazk users, interest groups) in seiting balanced priorities for pro�m*�++ng, maintenance, use of faciliaes, and other pazk related matters. Objective Il: Promote cultural ¢wareness St. Paul possesses a rich cultural heritage and broad spectrum of arts, historical, and ethnic resources. Pazks can enhance awazeness and access to these resources through cultural events and interpretive progruns. It is also important to recognize that white increased ethnic and racial diversiry has added to the richness of Saint Paul it also presents new challenges. Language barriers, culhual ignorance and insensidviry can lead to misundersiandings, conflicts, and--in the worst case-- exclusion and alienadon. Increasing cuItural sensifiviry can help eliminate cuIhual barriers while allowing us to draw upon the benefits and rewards of our diverse wlture. Policies: 37. Expand cross-cultural programming and interpretive opportunities. 38. Provide prograrns ihat are familiaz and attracrive to under-served populations. 39. Proactively recnrit and retain people of color and bilingual people for staff and volunteer posiUons. (see Obj. 9, policy 33). 40. Encourage use of pazk facilities to host public cultural and historic events. Pazks and Recrearion Plai 2 j Svategy: Bwlding Communiry Japanese Dancers at Town Square Park � � Strategy: Innovative Focusing of Resources q(� -.� 5 � Shrinking budgets and increased demarzds frame our future challenge. The Parks and Recreation Division can begin to address this cha[Zenge by setting clear prioriries--but it must also maintain f(exibiliry to respond to unforeseen opportunities and needs. It is essential to work "smaner"--to gain a better undersmnding of who we serve and what their needs and � desires are. 71ze Division must tap the potential of its existing resaurces and be willing ta ezplore new and altemative ways of doing things. The abi[iry to continue to deliver high qualiry park and recreation servires depends on the abiliry to use City resources in a an efficient, effective, and innovaRve manner. L� � � Findings: l. The Division's level of responsibility has increased over Ihe past few decades due to a more diverse service population, a 24 percent increase in total pazkland, and demand for new, larger, and more sophisticated recreauon centers. However, the budget (including staff levels) has remained relatively flat. As a result, the Division's actual "buying power" has decreased. � 2. Over the past decade ihere has been an increase in the number of federal, state, and local govemment regulations to ensure that facilities and equipment aze � stmcturally sound, accessible, and environmentally safe. Compliance with these requirements has contributed to significantly increased maintenance costs. � � � 1995 � Parks 8� Recreation �H�� MTCE. General Fund Budget '� � PARK 8 BUIIDING � MSCE. 6% FORESIRY 7 , ' lYh 4. Over the past decade the amount of general revenue funds available for pazks and recreation has varied significantly, with funds generally declining since the mid- 1980s. To counteract this downtum, the Division has attempted to increase the amou�t of the overall budget covered by special funds derived from fees, leases, and rentals. Other supplemental revenue sources currently used include: grants, donations, and cost sharing tluough partnerships. 5. The lazgest portion of the Division's general fund budget (36 percent) supports programming and maintenance at recreation centers. This is followed by 25 percent for general park, vehicle, and buiiding maintenance; 12 peicent for forestry; 12 percent for Como Zoo and Conservatory; 8 percent for specialized programs and facilities; 5 percent for administrauve{support; 1 percent for pazk security/rangers; and 1 percent for environment and natura] resources. This distribntion of general funds has remained relatively constant over the past several yeazs. (Souice: 1995 budget) c�oz� . rv� ��i Cano COMOZOO( . �=^x^'��' CONSERVATORY "� �� ^rv � ry COMPLE% � MMINIS1RAlIVE/ s ENYIRONMEM ❑ SUavOxr & NA7URAL SECURf1Y ��� RESOURCES RANGERS '� 1% 1% 3. It is not possible to meet all recreational demands within the exisling budget. Exisling budget ri�ends maintain the status quo dollar level but do not provide for expansion or creation of addiuonal programs. It will be nuessary to say "no° to sotne requests for additional services or to eliarinate some existing services to accommodate new demands. Pazks and Recreat�ou Plan PARKS 22 1995 General Fund Request $14,765,329 36% Rxreotia+Centers , Progmms-25% MTCE - 11 b sr�cuwzen Svategy: Ivnovative Focusng of Resources Strategy: Innovative Focusing of Resources (Fandings continued) 6. The Division is curtenfly involved in parinerships with over 200 organizafions represenring private, public, and non-profit sectors as well as most public and private schools and colleges. Partnerslups serve a variety of functions: preventing duplicadon, sharing facilities, providing services the Ciry cannot, and offering specialized expertise. 7. There is an increasing number of organizations offering recreauonal services. While public agencies have traditionally provided the bulk of general recreaUon services, the private sector is playing a lazger role in responding to increased demand for recreation. Private, non-profit orgaaizations provide services similaz to those provided by the public sector, which may ]ead to the impression that services aze being duplicated. However, while there may be some competition for resources, there is razely competition for participants. In addifion, the populariry of private, fux-pay Tecreafional services (e.a. health clubs) has contributed to increased demand on the public sector to provide similaz services at a lower cost. 8. The Division utilizes the help of numerous volunteers each yeaz, including over 8000 in 1994. Volunteers aze used in a variety of capacities from coaches and maintenance heip to advisory roles. In addition to adult volunteers, the City's pool of volunteers also includes youth and student intems. 9. Infoimation on recreation participation and demand is not currenfly compiled or analyzed in a coordinated and systemabc manner which makes it difficult to idenrify or justify priorities. Objective IZ: Establish priorities for use and distribution of city resources General fund dollazs allocated to parks and recreation cover basic services and basic faciliry maintenance. To accommodate additional services, funding is ofren drawn away from basic services and maintenance. Consequemly, the leve] of basic services and maintenance declines. Given limited resources and an expanding range of needs and demands, clear prioriries must be established to ensure an adequate level of maintenance and service is sustained and resources aze utilized to the fullest extent possible. Policies: 41. Develop a process to periodicaiiy evaluate and review el;isring faciliaes and services to deternune the'u efficiency and effectiveness and measure use and demand. 42. New acquisiflons, facilities, or services should only be made after thorough review to determine need and identifcation of resourczs to provide con6nuat opezation aod maintenance. (see Obj. 4, policy 13) 43. Encourage mutually beneficial joint use arraogements and other altemative means of delivering recreaUOn services, both formal and informat, before provision of new facili[ies ot pmgrattis. 44. Give prioriry ro recreation centers located in Neighborhoods in Transifion areas whan dishibufing resources for prograzns, services and facilides. Phalen tot lot Aarks and Rec`eation Plan 23 ' � Objective 13: Increase utilizalion of supplemental resources. Policies: � The availability of city resources to operate and maintain the pazk and recreation system is subjut to economic fluctuauons. Therefore, identifying a truly stable revenue source may not be feasible. Supplemental resources such as fees, �'ants, and pazmerships, allow the Division to pzovide services people want which appropriated funds alone cannot support. In some cases, supplemental resources aze necessary to ensure access to services for all members of our communiry. With restricted � city resources, supplemental resources and non-traditional approaches will become increasingly important, particulazly in providing neighborhood open space and recreation facilities. C J � ' , I� � 45. Pursue opportuniaes to secwe federal, state, and private resources (e.g. grants, partnerships) when and where possible to: �C� - 3a,5 budget (e.g. specialist contracts, community education). a. Ensure access to programs or facilities; 46. Pursue mumally beneficial opportunities to involve b. Provide the organizarional capacity to the corporatelbusiness community and neighborhood change service delivery, including the organizations in parmerships providing supplementa] provision of new services; resources (e.g. leases, sponsorships, maintenance c. Build, operate and maintain facilities; and agreements). d. Expand services beyond the general fund Objective 14: Improve utilization of human resources RecruiGng and maintaining a highly skilled and competent work force is essential ro the operations of the Division. Likewise, volunteers provide vital support to staff operations and allow the Ciry to engage in activifles it might not do otherwise. Effecdve utilizafion of staff and volunteers requires condnual reinvestment and coaunitment to recruitment, training, coordinaaon, and recognition. PO�1cIQS: 47. Provide on-going sldlls training and development programs to improve and expand staff skills and capabilities. 48. Establish models to build staff capacity to work independently, as teams, or in partnerships to deliver services. 49. Improve the use and effectiveness of volunteers in the pazk system by maintaining: a A diverse pool of skilled volunteers; b. An effective system foi matcMng volunteers with specific tasks based on sldlls reqaired, time wmmitment and othei factors; c. Adequate training and supervision. 50. Consistently reward and recognize staff and volunteers for their contributions to the park and recreation system. Parks and Recreation Pl� Zd $trategy:lnnovahve Focusing of Resources Park Clean up riverfront Objective Z5: Improve management of resources Changes in our service population, changing ]ifestyles, and rapidly changing recreation trends all contribu[e to the increased and growing diversity of demands, and comperiuon for use of pazk resources. Providing more services and facifi6es has been the usual response. However, there is a lunit to how much we can add to the system to accommodate new and changing needs. Rather, we need to effectively manage our resources to ensure that we provide a balance of high qualiry recreadon opportunides. This requires a thorough understanding of needs and flexibiliry to respond to change. It atso means unproving the efficiency and effectiveness of Faciliries, operauons, and maintenance. Policies: 51. Improve data collection, coordination and analysis capabilities to strengthen capacity to provide adequate information for ptanning, evaluation and management. 52. Encourage flexibility in faciliTy use, programming, and staffmg (including volunteers). 53. Ensure facilities accommodate a balance of uses which reflect the diversity of community needs and demands. 54, Review and revise if necessarv, plan obiecrives and policies on a biannual basis when a new two veaz action plan is develoved. Pazks and Reaeation Pian 2,5 Straze Innovarive SY= Focusing of Resou�ces , � i r � � � � ' IJ �� � ��D ' J���� SAINT PAUL PARKS AND RECREATION COMPREHENSIVE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Tlris secrion includes implementarion acrion steps for achieving some of the policies outlined 'm the S�ategy section. The two yeaz acuon plan identifies the acuon steps the Parks and Recrearion Division plans to undertake in 1995 and 1996. Each acfion step includes the policy number in pazentheses (-) Following the step. The intent of the acuon plan is to provide a realistic work plan that will help focus the work of the Pazks and Recreazion Divislon over the next two years. The acqon plan will be updated by the staff biannually, presented to the Pazks and Rureation Commission for review and approval, and adopted by ihe City Council. BUDGET LIMITATIONS As stated in the assumpfions on which this plan is based, funding for pazks and recreation has decreased at regional, state and federal levels over the past decade. The Ciry budget for parks and recreation services will not increase, and will likely decrease given the administrauon's commitment to a 0% increase in the City budget for the four yeazs of Mayor Coleman's [emt. The current budget will need to absorb rising costs for utilities, maintenance and scheduled salary increases for staff, while still maintaining and operaring the cutrent system of pazkland and facilities. Given these budget realities, the action plan focuses an what realistically can be donz in the next two yeazs. MAINTENANCE While the City has consistently been responsive to the demands Por new facIlities, the resources allocated to adequately maintain and staff rhis system Las not kept pace. Maintenance and operating costs continue to increase due to the construction of larger buildings, deterioration of aging buildings, an inadequate replacement schedule for vehicles and equipment, and acquisiuon of more pazkland. The Ciry has a substantial investment in its pazk and recreation system, and needs to budget sufficien[ resources fox maintenance to protect that investment and avoid even highez repair and replacement costs in the futiue. OVERALL GOAL Provide resources to ensure all facili[ies, programs, and services aze accessible, safe, well-maintained and adequately staffed to meet public demand. Como O�dway Memorial Japanese Garden Crosby Park cross country skling Aazks and Recreauon Plan 2( "Playdays"Como Conservatory � 1996-1997 ACTION PLAN ACTION STEPS FOR 1996 RESOURCE PROTECTLON r. 2. 3, 4. 5. �� 7 Complete and maintain an invenmry of natural resources within ten key city pazks, identifying endangered and threatened species and sensiTive habitais. (1) RESPONSIBII,ITY: Support Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: $5,000 For duplicating costs Develop resource management plans for two pazk areas as pilot projects. (1} RESPONSIBILIT'Y: Support Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: $5,000 per management plan for staff and supply costs Conduct annual review of chemical use on pazkland. (1) RESPONSIBILIT'Y: Support Services Section, City Council BUDGET IMPACT; Current staff time Work with City adminisuazors to determine if establishing a service chazge for tree mzintenance is possible. (4) RESPONSIBILITY; Forestry, Pazks Administration, Mayor BUDGET IMPACT: $100,000+ in siart-up costs wLich wouid eventualIy be repaid Expand environmental awareness, education and interpretive programs in Como and Crosby Farm Pazks. (1) RESPONSIBILITY: Environmental Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: $100,000 per year Review aud, if needed, revise the tree protection ordinance. (4) RESPONSIBILITY: Foresxry Unit, Mayor, City Council BUDGET IMPACT: G�rreat staff time Continue to develop mutually beneficial partnerships with Northern Stazes Power, District Energy and Public Works to improve customer service, increase ptoductevity, and reduce duplicadon. (4) RESPONSIBILITY: Environmental Services Section, Forestry Unit BUDGET IMPACT: Reliable equipment and sufficient staff will be needed. Specifics depand on partnerships developed. h5/� I��Y If�I�Y_\�C�1 �l 8. Complete inventory of vehicles and equipment in the Pazks and Recrearion Division in prepazation for improved fleet management. (Obj. 1S� RESPONSIBILIT'I': Vehicle Maintenance Unit BUDGET IMPACT: C�urent stafF time 9/6/95 � , Parks aral Recraarion Plan 27 ' 1 9. � � 10. � 11. � � 12. ' q�-�,5 Complete strategy for joint purchasing of vehicles, equipmeni, and vehicle rental. (Obj. 1S� RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks Administration, Vehicle Maintenance Unit BUDGET IMPACT: $600,000 per year Develop and implement minimwn srandazds for recreation center maintenance citywide for each level of building• (1� - RESPONSIBII,I1'I': Recreation Center Maintenance Section BUDGET IIvIPACT: Clurent staff time Deveiop an ongoing pmgram for scenic overlook cleazance to maintain important vistas wiihin the city on a regular cycle. (16) RESPONSIBAdTY: Pazk Maintenance and Forestry Sections BUDGET IMPACT: Current staff time Refurbish Showmobiles and bring up to desirable standards. (16) RESPONSIBILITY: Recreation Center Maintenance and Vehicle Maintenance Sections BUDGET IMPACT: $15,000 � DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT 13. ■ � 14. � 15. 16. Provide on-street bike lanes on Mississippi River Boulevazd, a designated pazkway, from Minneapolis to Prior Avenue. (7/8/9/10) RESPONSISILITY: Public Works, Pazks and Recreation, Mayor, Ciry Council BUDGET IMPACT: Un�own Complete Phalen Creek Trail and pursue connection to Riverfront trails. (8) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks and Recreauon, Public Works, Pazks and Recreation Commission, BAB, Mayor, City Council BUDGET IMPACT: Unknown Pursue trail development as Ayd Mill Road design altematives aze considered. (8) RESPONSIBILITY: Parks and Recreation, Public Works BUDGET IMPACT: Unlmown Work with the Wabasha Bridge Task Force and Design Team to ensute inclusion of bicyclelgedestrian paths on new bridge. (S) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks and Recreation, Public Works, Pazks and Recreation Commission, BAB, Mayor, City Council BUDGET IMPACT: Unlmown Parks and Recrearion Plan 2$ OUTREACH. AWARENESS AND PROMOTION 17 18. Work closely with the St. Paul School District to develop partneiships between Como Pazk Environmental Education and science teachers to develop a biology curriculum that pmvides oppommities for St. Pavl students to utilize Como Zoo and Conservatory effectively. (4� RESPONSIBII.ITY: Pazks and Recreation, St. Paul School District BUDGET IMPACT: May require start-up funding Seek out corporations to sponsor e�cpanded noon-time concerts, artist-in-residence programs, mmd environmental education oppommities at Como Zoo and Conservatory. (18) RESPONSIDII,ITY: Pazks and Recreation BUDGET IMPACT: May require start-up Tunding 19. Continue to explore with the downtown community the possibiliiy of keeping Ca£esjian's Carousel in Town Square Pazk. (20) RESPONSIBII.ITY: Special Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: $30,000 for progr�.!�*�+?ng the park 20. Design and implement programs that respond to the needs of residents of varying backgrounds by: a. Improving outreach; b. Improving community assessment; c. Iaviting zesidents of varying backgrounds to provide input on services; and d. Identifying and contacting residents not using services to determine their interests � and needs. (26) RESPONSIBILTTY: Recreation Programming Section BUDGET IMPACT: Unknown (spending priorities wIll change) 21. Encourage communiry use of recreazion facili[ies by: a. Promoting the availability of recreation centers for community evenu; b. Establishing space use charge gaidelines that enoourage community use at a reasonable cost; and c. Working with neighborhood organizatioas in planning functions and events. (2� RESPONSIBILITY: Recreation Prograneming Section BUDGET IMPACT: Unlmow¢, increased revenues are expected SERVICES AND PROGRAMS 22. Develop and implement Division securiry/emergency plans for key Division facilities. {23) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks Security, Pazks and Recreation facIlity managers BUDGET IMPACT: Cunent staff time Pazks and Recreauon Plan 29 , , 23. � , 24. ' 25. � � 26. ' 27. f � 28. 29. �i�"�� Involve the community in a systematic way in setting program and service-related priorities for selected programs. (3S� RESPONSIBII,ITY: Recreation Prograznming Section BUDGET IMPACT: Requires $4100 start-up funding Schedule programs and services az times thaz respond to priorities identified by the community. (35) RESPONSIBIi,ITY: Recreation Programming Section BUDGET IMPACT: Unknown (spending priorities will change) Use neighborhood service delivery tezms to improve programs and services. (4� RESPONSIBILITY: Reereation Ptogramming Section BUDGET IMPACT: L3nlmown (spending priorities will change) Sponsor additional downtown and riverfront special events as oppommities arise. (40) RESPONSIBILITY: Special Services Section SUDGET IMPACT: Potential new revenue Develop a strategy to provide funding for speciai events produced by the Pazks and Recreation Division. (46} RESPONSIBILITY: Special Services SectiQn BUDGET IMPACT: $20,000 in sponsorship revenue Develop and adopt a standazdized rate structuxe for pazk permits. (30) RESPONSIDILITY: Pazks Adminisuaiion, Operations and Support Services Sections BUDGET IMPACT: Current staff time Refine the pazk permit system and determine ihe feasibiliry of a Division-wide a[l-type permit system with "one stop shopping". (4S) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks Administration, Pazk Maintenance Section BUDGET IMPACT: $4�,000 INFORMATION AND DATA MANAGEMENT 30. 31. Develop mechanisms for routine feedback for selected programs. (41) RESPONSIBILITY: Support Services Section and Activiry Managers BUDGET IMPACT: $5,000 for postage and printing Secure funds for citywide survey (10 year anniversary, last done in 1986). (41) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks and Recreation BUDGET IMPACT: $40,000 Parks and Recreaaon Plan 30 32. Secure space, equipment and money for salazies to expand use of interns. (49) RFSPONSIBII,ITY: Pazks and Recreation BUDGET IMPACT: $25,000 STAFFING 33. Develop customer service team az Como Zoo and Conservatory. (51) RESPONSIBILITY: Environmental Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: May require start-up funding 34. 35. 36. 37 38. Create staff development team and plan for Como Zoo and Consetvatory to ensure staff effectiveness and efficiency. (51) RFSPONSIBILITY: Environmental Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: $1�,000 for specific uaining sessions Implement elements of an a�rmarive action strategy for reccuitment, uaining and xetenrion of staff. (39) RESPONSIBILITY: Support Setvices Secaon BUDGET IMPACT: May require start-up funding for outreach and training Establish models that build staff capaciry to work independendy. Complete the neighborhood service delivery team staffing modei. (48) Responsibiliry: Recreation Prograwming Section Budget Impact: $20,000 for staff development DeveIop grant proposals for funding the environmental education program. (4� RESPONSIBILITI': Environmental Services Section BUDGET IMPAC'f: Requires funding for staff and progiamming Develop graut proposals for funding the Como Conservatory's Artist-in-Residence program. (4� RESPONSIBILTTY: Enduonmental Services Secuon BUDGET IMPACT: Requires funding for artist, progcamming, and facilities 39. Work closely with the Police Department to evaluate Pazk Ranger seroices provided since transfer in I995. (24/2� a. Develop brochure with Police explaining how Pazk Ranger services aze provided. b. Document and evaluate effectiveness of Puk Wazch Ptogram between Parks and Police for one season (1995). c. Work closely with Police teams to identify problem ueas and develop a response process. RESPONSTBILITY: Pazk and Recreation Managers, Support Services Seetion, Police Department BUDGET IMPACT: C�rrent staff time and printing costs Pazks and Recmation Plan 31 � 1 �. � , 41. , , , ' � � °���5 Wark with neighborhood goups (surveys, meetings, focus groups) to identify security concems vrithin the Pazk system. (24/2S7 RFSPONSIBILITY: Pazks and Recreazion Managers, Support Services Section, Police Department BUDGET IMPACT: G�rrent staff time Develop and distribute Puk Watch flyers to Division facilities and community groups. (2� Responsibility: Budget Impact: S�pport Services Section $5,000 for information development and printing Parks and Recrealion Plan 32 ' ACTION STEPS FOR 1997 RESOURCE PROTECTION 1. Determine need for computeriaed tree inventory. (1/4/51) RESPONSIBII,ITY: Forestry Section BUDGET IMPACT: $7,500 for intem, $12,000 computer start-up costs 2. Develop resource management plans for four pazks. (1) RESPONSIBIIdTY: Environmental Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: $5,000 per management plan for staff and supply cosu 3, Conduct annual review of chemical use on pazkland. (1) RESPONSIBII.TTY: Environmental Services Section, City Council BUDGET IMPACT: Cturent staff time 4. Contact DNR to compare DNR's bioric inventory program/county biological survey and the City's natural resources inventories, and revise inventories if needed. (2} RESPONSIBILIT'Y: Environmental Services Section BUDGET IMPACT: Clurent staff rime and $10,000 for possible interns DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT 5. In the Regional Pazks and Open Space System, the City will: (11) a. Seek funding for completion of plans and development projects (CIB, Metro Pazks, LCMR, ISTEA, otfier); b. Identify/prioritize vail segments, conneaions, etc. RESPONSIBILITY: Puks and Recrearion, Public Works, Pazks and Recreation Commission, BAB, Mayor, City Council BUDGET IMPACT: Current staff time 6. Implement local parks and recreation priorities: (12) a, Seek funding to complete construction of community recteation centers at North Dale and Battle Creek. b. Develop plan and seek funding for a multi-use sports/recreation faciliiy. RESPONSIBII,ITY: Pazks and Recreatioa, Mayor, City Council BUDGET IMPACT: As availabte Work wiih neighboring municipalities, counties, MnDOT, NSP and Metropolitan Council to coord'mate trail planning. (S) RESPONSISILITY: Pazks and Recreation, Public Works, Pazks and Recreation Commission, BAB, Mayor, City CouncIl BUDGET IMPACT: CYurent staff time ' � L� ' � � Packs and Recreaaon Plan 33 , , o�rrxEnca. nw�r�ss. nrm rxoMOTTON , , , � ' � t � `��`�� 8. Secure resources to wordinate public information and marketing for Division programs. (25/26/34) Responsibility: Support Services Sution Budget Imgact: $SQ,000 SERVICES AND PROGRAMS 9. 10. Evaluate progiams and services at Neighborhoods in Transition facilities to determine the effectiveness in helping stabilize the wmmuniry. (51) RESPONSIBII,ITY: Recreation Programming Section BUDGET IMPACT: $2000 for the evaluation Develop a volunteer base at selected recreation centers so that programs, services, and faciliry hours can be augmented. (49/52) RESPONSIBILITY: Recreation Programming Section _ BUDGET IMPACT: $2000 for volunteer training INFORMATION AND DATA MANAGEMENT ll. Train key staff in marketing facilities and programs. (34) RESPONSIBILITY: Support Services Section and Managers BUDGET IMPACT: $5,000 12. Develop an accurate inventory of all Saint Paul Pazks and RecreaGon land with location, legal description, acreage, and date of acquisition. i51) RE5PONSIBILITY: Pazks Administration, Pazk Maintenance Section, Intem BUDGET IMPACT: $5,000 STAFFiNG 13. Provide improved uaining for ail levels of Operations staff - both mandated and elective training. (47) RESPONSIBILITY: Operations Sution BUDGET IMPACT: $10,000 MAINTENANCE 14. 15. Review feasibility of converting the Smail Engine Repair Unit to an enterprise fund. (Obj. 12) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks Administration, Vehicle Maintenance and Pazk Maimenance Sections BUDGET 1MPACT: Curtent staff time and costs to be detetmined Identify azeas and implement reduced mowing azeas throughout the Pazks system. (Obj. 12) RESPONSIBILITY: Pazks Admiuistrauon, Operations Section BUDGET IMPACT: Current staff time Patks and Recreation Plan 34 1 1 1 1 1 1 CIT'Y PARKS AND PARKWAYS r-- 9� �1 �� I i 1 ! 1 1 i £1 Yf ' ' � � 5man Narcets ana �rnamemai 5paces Pazks and Aecreanon Plan 3$ 1 1 � f' , i I F t , , t � t f ( ,� � � � � I SPECIALIZED RECREATION FACII,ITIES Pazks and Recrea[ion Plan r-- Como a� Blarc Avenua Paluce fasriiew 0 fiolf HighMnd (40� 18aale) 0 Como/Pholen O Camo Im and Canservatury 0 Downhill Skimg/Como Gms tounhySkiing Hidden falk/Gosby Farm Highknd/Pfiokn/tomo 36 ._ . Cano lakesde (remak) � Marin� Hamef I�and Wate�qate p coMerts Como lnkeside Pwilan Hnmet {�and Mears Park Phalen Ampitheotre Raspberry i�and Rite Park Town Square Irvine Park Q� - �15 i 1 l I 1 nRd � �' � � � i � � � � � � � � � � Dunning Phalen � Cammunity Educationf Becreataa (ollice laatiun) CTI'Y RECREATION CENTER LOCATIONS .�� • � -1� � � � � RICEB xesr � uwsor� �exr�wuu ( o ,. YISTA � �° � ��.� � � � � � � � a�� �N � ��� SAqIEITc �� East7tn - M'm�h ■ YAAGRAFf EASiI^ � fOH58WFF Fzst3rd L ■ COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTERS � NEIGHBORHOOD RECREA710N CENTERS • PARLTIME RECREATION CENTERS Parks and Recreation Plan 37 ' 1 � ' ' ' , ' , � ' ' ' ' I INDOOR FACILRIES CENTER ADDRESS PHONE Q g� ci G` � c�'' s� � Arlington 665 E. Rose 298-5707 7 1 S 7 Baker 209 W. Page 292-72A4 2 2 1 1 1 L 1 Battle Creek 2076 Upper Afton 29&5737 1 1 S 1 Conway 2090 Conway 298-5742 1 1 1 1 1 L 1 i Dayton's Bluff 790 Conway 298-5703 1 1 S 1 Desnoyer * 525 Pelham 298-5753 1 1 1 Duluth & Case 1020 Duluth 298-5709 1 M 7 Dunning 1221 Marshall 298-5754 1 EasNiew 608 Kennard 295-5710 1 7 1 M 1 Edgcumbe 320 S. Griggs 298-5772 1 1 1 1 L 1 1 EI Rio Vista 179 E. Robie 298-5659 7 7 L 1 1 Front * 485 Stinson 288•5809 1 1 S 1 Frost Lake 1518 E. Idaho 298-5712 1 1 1 M 1 Griggs * 1188 Hubbard 298-5755 1 Groveland 2045 St. Clair 298•5T/5 1 1 L 7 Hancock 1610 Hubbard 298-4393 1 1 1 1 1 L 1 1 Hayden Heights 1965 E. Hoyt 298-5716 1 1 1 L 2 Hazel Park 919 N. Hazel 298-5738 1 1 S 1 Highwood Hills * 2188 Londin Ln. 298-5749 1 1 1 1 L 1 Hillcrest 1978 Ford Pkwy. 298-5778 3 1 1 1 L 1 1 Homecroft 1845 Sheridan 298-5794 1 1 1 L 1 Jimmy Lee 10631glehart 298-5760 1 1 1 L 1 Langford 30 Langford Park 298-5765 1 1 1 M 1 Linwood 860 St. Clair 298-5660 1 3 1 1 1 L 1 1 Margaret 1109 Margaret 298-5719 1 1 1 L 1 1 Martin Luther King 270 N, Kent 298-5661 1 L 1 1 McDonough 1544 Timberlake 298-5810 2 1 1 L 1 Merriam Park 2000 St. Anthony 298-5766 1 1 L 1 North Dale 1414 N. St. Albans 298-5812 1 M 1 Northwest Como 1557 Huron 298-5813 1 1 L 1 Orchard 875 Orchard 298-5816 1 1 M 1 7 Palace 781 Palace 298-5677 1 1 1 1 1 L 1 i Phalen 7000 E. Wheelock 298-5721 1 7 S 7 j Prospenty 1371 Kennard 298-5722 1 1 1 1 M 1 ! Rice & Lawson 1021 Marion 298-5819 1 1 1 L 7 � St. Clair * 265 Oneida 298-5730 S 1 ' Scheffer 237 Thomas 298-5820 1 1 S 1 So. St. Anthony :k 890 Cromwell 298-5770 1 1 L 1 Sylvan 77 W. Rose 298-5821 1 1 S 1 Valley 690 Jackson 298-5657 1 1 1 1 M 1 Wesi Minnehaha 685 W. Minnehaha 298-5823 1 7 1 1 L 7 1 Wilder 958 Jessie 298-5727 2 1 1 1 M 1 1 * Part-Time Recreation Center S- Small M - Medium L - large Pazks and Recreazion Plan 3S a�-�5 OUTDOOR FACILITIES �� � o �'�, m� Q� O V� �� �� � � �� �`� y m �5�' �2 o m 4 �� �..° c° � �.° . q° �' c° � ��0��� � ������ � �0�0�� � �0���� � ������ � ������ � 0�0��� � �0���� � ������ � ������ � �0���� � 0�0��� � 00���� � 0����� � 00�0�� � ������ � �0�0�� � ������ � 000�0� � 0�0��� 1 0�''� ' Park Planning Task Force Kiki Sonnen, Co-Chair David McDoneII, Co-Chair Karin DuPaul Steve Garvey Bonnie Lawrence Staff Administration Credits Peggy Lexau Debbie Montgomery Bazb Rose Imogene Treichel Jill Danner, Ex-Officio (Parks Commission Chair) Robert Piram, Pazks and Recreation Division Dan Cornejo, Planning Division Ken Ford, Plazuiing Division Parks and Recreation Division Judy Barr, Parks and Recreation Division Vince Gillespie, Parks and Recreafion Division John Poor, Pazks and Recreation Division John Wirka, Parks and Recreation Division Victor Wittgenstein, Parks and Recreation Division Lynn Wolfe, Pazks and Recreation Division Sandra Gariepy, Parks and RecreaUOn Division Planning Division Donna Drummond, Planning Division Julie Farnham, Planning Division Parks Commission 7ill Danner Chairperson Teirence Hunuods, First �ce-Chairperson Gail Gisi David Goodiow Babara Johnson Bfia Moua John O`Halioran Caroi Osip Phil Rivitzky _ ' � � � � � � ' � , ' , � � , Aarks and Reaeation Plan 39