120903 PK WS MIN
CITY OF SHOREWOOD 5755 COUNTRY CLUB ROAD
PARK COMMISSION WORK SESSION7:00 P.M.
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2003
MINUTES
1. CONVENE PARK COMMISSION WORK SESSION MEETING
Chair Arnst called the meeting to order at P.M.
A. Roll Call
Present: Chair Arnst, Commissioners Meyer, Davis, Callies, and late arrival Gilbertson;
Engineer Brown; Planning Director Nielsen; and City Council liaison Turgeon
Absent: Commissioner Young
B. Review Agenda
Moved, seconded, to approve the Agenda as submitted. Motion passed 5/0.
2. DISCUSS VISION FOR THE PARKS AS IT RELATES TO THE PARK
FOUNDATION
Chair Arnst stated that the Foundation had requested at the joint Park Foundation Meeting of October 7,
2003, that the Park Commission supply them with what the Commission see as the vision for the Park
Foundation. She asked Callies if they had committed to other elements.
Callies stated that this was one aspect.
Chair Arnst indicated that Jon Guy, a professional fundraiser, encouraged the Commission to prioritize
their vision and ideas.
Meyer indicated that her top priority would be to get the brick program progress and have the bricks
laid in order for those who have purchased bricks can see the fruits of their donation.
Davis added that, if the bricks were laid, more people might be willing to step up and purchase one for
themselves. She felt that the Foundation needed to be interjected with some energy and enthusiasm.
Gilbertson suggested the Foundation be encouraged to contribute to the Freeman Pond effort and
promenade.
Brown felt this would be a very realistic and appropriate joint effort.
Chair Arnst stated that she would like to see a rec center be built in Shorewood, perhaps where the
Minnetonka Country Club is located. In addition, she felt a public golf course would also be an amenity
to the community.
PARK COMMISSION WORK SESSION MEETING MINUTES
December 9, 2003
Page 2 of 4
Based on the Comprehensive Plan, Gilbertson suggested more pedestrian circulation access.
Brown mentioned the Skate Park and upgrades to the park equipment.
Turgeon inquired whether there were any amenities that could be added to the islands of Shorewood to
promote a feeling of connectedness.
Davis suggested the craft show location be moved to the Country Club and turned into a community
festival.
Brown pointed out that the Commission seems to be looking for a community event, while they’ve
acknowledged that the craft show can be successful and will continue to grow.
Chair Arnst asked if the Foundation’s craft show or other fundraising efforts could be incorporated with
a community event.
Callies stated that the Foundation is not looking for direction of where the money is to be spent.
Chair Arnst and the Commission encouraged Callies to relay to the Foundation the Commission’s
support for their craft show fundraising effort.
Since the City was incorporated in 1956, Technician Bailey suggested they give consideration to a
anniversary celebration in 2006.
In an effort to prioritize the vision, the Commission identified the items in 1-5 order.
1. Complete or lay the Brick program for Eddy Station
2. $94,000 to Eddy Station
3. Community Center
4. Pond Feature/Water garden at Freeman Park
3. REVIEW GOALS
A. REVIEW 2003 GOALS
Chair Arnst pointed out that the Commission has completed most of the items on their 2003 goals, other
than the current Freeman pond project and partner organizations.
B. DISCUSS 2004 GOALS AND IDEAS
With regard to Gideon Glen, Brown reported that the watershed has committed to contributing $75,000
toward the planting and maintenance of the plant growth for a period of time.
Chair Arnst added the community event to the priority list of 2004.
1. DOG PARKS
PARK COMMISSION WORK SESSION MEETING MINUTES
December 9, 2003
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While she felt dog parks offer a nice amenity for dog owners to meet, Meyer found it difficult to identify
a site for the park.
Davis suggested a community composting site be incorporated into the dog park facility. She pointed
out that a dog park must be at least the size of a soccer field.
Based on an email received from a resident, Chair Arnst suggested they give this further consideration.
Chair Arnst stated that Planning Director Nielsen would be coming to their January meeting to discuss
future Comprehensive Planning for the Park Commission.
Gilbertson suggested that trail sections, with regard to the County Road 19 corridor construction
project, be put on the Commission’s radar screen.
Brown stated that another avenue worth exploring is the potential for LaCrosse.
Meyer suggested that the Commission stay on top of the Concession operation status to ensure its
continued growth.
Gilbertson asked if the Commission would like to continue to pursue interaction with other
commissions.
Chair Arnst stated that they would be working through the Minnesota Park and Rec Association.
Brown added that park signage was another item brought up during past park tours as an identity item.
Turgeon suggested the Foundation be directed to investigate park signage as an end for their
fundraising.
Gilbertson believed this would be an appropriate time to investigate new signage in an effort to
coordinate with the corridor’s new entrance look.
Davis liked the idea of promoting events that produce a revenue stream every year.
2. PROGRAMMING IN PARKS
As a compliment to the community center idea, Davis stated that it is not uncommon to receive minimal
payment for park programs.
Chair Arnst prioritized the items as follows;
1. Community event
2. Dog park, March timeline
3. Implementation piece of Master Plan
4. Stay on top of County Road 19 trail opportunities
5. Explore Skate Park Improvement and incorporate into CIP
6. Explore LaCrosse markets
7. Concession Stand opportunity
PARK COMMISSION WORK SESSION MEETING MINUTES
December 9, 2003
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8. Continue Commissioner Development Program – March/April
9. Fill Commissioner position
10. Signage for parks – explore themes and costs
11. Continued ongoing Sports Association relations
4. DEFINE A VISION FOR A COMMUNITY EVENT
5. ADJOURNMENT
The Park Commission adjourned the Work Session.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
Kristi Anderson
Recording Secretary