HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-11-21 Parks and Trails Agenda PacketCorcoran Parks and Trails Commission Agenda
November 21, 2024
7:00 pm
*Includes Materials - Materials relating to these agenda items can be found in the Council Chambers Agenda
Packet book located by the entrance. The complete Parks and Trails Commission Agenda Packet is available
electronically on the City website at www.corcoranmn.gov.
OIGINAL
1.Call to Order / Roll Call
2.Pledge of Allegiance
3.Agenda Approval
4.Minutes
a.Minutes – October 17, 2024, Meeting*
5.Open Forum – Public Comment Opportunity
6.Presentations – None
7.Unfinished Business
a.Winter Trail Maintenance Update*
8.New Business
a.Boardwalk in Bellwether Design*
b.Former Cropland Seeding*
c.See My Legacy/Park Enhancement Program*
9.Reports/Information
a.Planning Project Update – Information Only*
b.Parks, Recreation, and Trails Update*
10.Subcommittee & Miscellaneous Reports
a.Garden Club Report
b.Park Dedication Fund*
11.Other Business/Announcements
a.June 2025 Parks and Trails Commission Meeting*
12.Adjournment
HYBRID MEETING OPTION AVAILABLE
The public is invited to attend the regular Parks and
Trails Commission meetings at City Hall.
Meeting Via Telephone/Other Electronic
Means
Call-in Instructions:
+1 312 626 6799 US
Enter Meeting ID: 815 9742 6469
Video Link and Instructions:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81597426469
visit http://www.zoom.us and enter
Meeting ID: 815 9742 6469
*Please note in-person comments will be taken
at the scheduled meeting where noted.
Comments received via email to Recreation
Supervisor Christensen Buck at
jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov or via public
comment cards will also be accepted. All email
and public comment cards must be received by
the Wednesday prior to scheduled Parks and
Trails meeting. For more information on options to provide
public comment visit:
www.corcoranmn.gov
1
Corcoran Parks and Trails Meeting Minutes
October 17, 2024 - 7:00 pm
The Corcoran Parks and Trails Commission met on October 17, 2024, at City Hall in Corcoran, MN.
Present were Commissioners Anderson, Christenson, Friedrich, Nybo, and Strehler.
Present at City Hall was Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck.
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
Chair Christenson called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
Chairperson Christenson invited all in attendance to rise and join in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Agenda Approval
Motion: Made by Anderson, seconded by Nybo, to approve the agenda as presented.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Friedrich, Nybo, and Strehler.
(Motion carried 5:0)
4. Minutes
a. Minutes – September 19, 2024, Meeting
Motion: Made by Friedrich, seconded by Strehler, to approve the minutes as presented.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Friedrich, Nybo, and Strehler.
(Motion carried 5:0)
5. Open Forum
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted no attendance in the audience.
6. Presentations – None
7. Unfinished Business
8. New Business
a. Historical Overview of City Park Development
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck updated the Commission on the conversation about the history
and development of City Park with Frank and Catherine Meister, Denise Haechrel, Commissioner Nybo,
and Commissioner Strehler. Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck highlighted dirt work and excavation
by Willie Snyder, and Larry Jordan having helped with the backstop for Snyder Field. Recreation Supervisor
Christensen Buck noted Frank Meister mowed the park, installed the first playground at the park, fenced
around the ballfields, ran concessions in the warming house, and updated the warming house with
assistance from Denny Jobes, thus having Meister Field named after him. Recreation Supervisor
Christensen Buck noted the assistance from the Northwest Area Jaycees through funding for the pavilion
and current playground at City Park. Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck included that Commissioner
Nybo was noted in the City Council minutes as attending the meeting to request a new playground at City
Park with George Gmach. Commissioner Nybo noted that the old playground, located by where the current
t-ball fields are now, was hit by tornado debris and needed to be replaced. Recreation Supervisor
Christensen Buck noted assistance from the Corcoran Lions for field lighting, tennis courts, and Lions Field.
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck highlighted the City Council minutes from 1997-2000 with Parks
and Trails related items including hockey rinks, fields, and the playgrounds at City Park. Recreation
Supervisor Christensen Buck highlighted changes to City Park shown on Hennepin County GIS from 1969
to 2024 through a timeline of aerial screenshots of City Park. Commissioners noted the western portion of
the park originally belonged to the Rockford School District until 2018 or 2019. Commissioners noted that
sometime between 2002-2004 the Parks and Trails Commission formed and began meeting.
Commissioners expressed interest in learning more about the Corcoran Athletic Association and their inputs
2
into City Park. Commissioner Nybo noted there appeared to be 25-year lifecycle for playgrounds, to which
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted that vendors say 8-10 years, but data shows they can last
up to 10-20 years. Commissioner Anderson noted park shelters that he remembered from his childhood in
Minneapolis that were wood and lasted approximately 30 years, but the replacement buildings were
cinderblock buildings that still exist.
b. Bark in the Park Survey
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck highlighted the Bark in the Park event that took place on Friday,
September 6, 2024, where 17 survey responses were received regarding input on dog amenities within the
City. Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck requested Commissioners review the survey questions and
consider directing staff to proceed with a dog amenity survey to the public. Commissioner Anderson noted
that the seating and shading at the park should be considered at all parks within the City as a standard.
Chair Christenson inquired about collecting emails with the survey, to which Recreation Supervisor
Christensen Buck advised against it to allow anonymity. Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck informed
the Commission that there is a Parks and Recreation email list for those that have agreed to be on it.
Commissioner Anderson inquired about if the option to opt into the email list was on the Tree Giveaway
form, to which Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted that it was not but could be added.
Commissioners were in consensus for Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck to proceed with collecting
additional information through an online survey.
9. Reports/Information
a. Planning Project Update – Information Only
Commissioner Nybo inquired about the trucking company located off of County Road 101.
b. Parks, Recreation, and Trails Update
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted items that she had been working on since the last Parks and
Trails Commission meeting, including park planning, City Park engagement, policy updates, park history,
youth athletics, and Parks and Trails Commission items.
Vice-Chair Friedrich recalled the November Parks and Trails Commission meeting being moved to Tuesday
November 19, 2024, to which the Commission agreed that Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 7:00 pm would
work for the meeting date and time.
Motion: Made by Friedrich, seconded by Nybo, to approve the November Parks and Trails Commission
Meeting take place on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 7:00 pm, to coincide with the open house from
5:30 to 6:30 pm.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Friedrich, Nybo, and Strehler.
(Motion carried 5:0)
Vice-Chair Friedrich inquired about offering flag football, to which Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck
noted how heavily the fields are used with current program offerings and noted potential to re-evaluate
following City Park updates. Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted the Holiday Toy and Food Drive
was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, with open registration for interested
neighborhoods. Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted items at City Council since the September
Parks and Trails Commission meeting including a grant application for a new lawn mower and an upcoming
meeting to include the City Park remaster.
10. Subcommittee & Miscellaneous Reports
a. Garden Club Report
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck noted that she reached out to the Department of Agriculture
regarding the Nursery Stock Dealer Certificate that is required for the annual Tree Giveaway and was
informed it would still be required.
b. Park Dedication Fund
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck informed the Commission that the City Council approved an
agreement with ABDO to serve as the finance manager role for the City which would allow for the Park
Dedication Fund to be updated more regularly.
11. Other Business/Announcements
Commissioner Anderson noted the South Fork of the Rush Creek Stream Restoration in Maple Grove and
inquired if the Commission would be interested in hearing more about it from their project manager.
Commissioners expressed interest in having the project manager attend a future meeting where there is not
planned City Park project discussion. Commissioner Anderson noted that the October 24, 2024, City
3
Council meeting would be where Ken Guenthner, Watershed Commissioner, would be receiving his
outgoing recognition for his service. Commissioner Anderson noted his role as the alternate for the
Watershed Commission but that the City is still looking for a Watershed Commissioner.
12.Adjournment
Motion: Made by Strehler, seconded by Anderson, to adjourn the meeting at 7:42 pm.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Friedrich, Nybo, and Strehler.
(Motion carried 5:0)
Submitted by Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
STAFF REPORT Agenda Item: 7a.
Commission Meeting
November 21, 2024
Prepared By
Kevin Mattson
Topic
Winter Trail Maintenance Update
Action Required
Direction
Summary
Planning for the maintenance of trails has been an ongoing discussion with the Parks &
Trails Commission and City Council in recent years.
In October of 2023, staff prepared a draft Snow & Ice Removal Policy that attempted to
begin to identify and organize policy discussions related to the maintenance of streets
and trails.
Attached is the staff report that was presented to City Council which provides a
summary of the discussion topics to date and illustrates the complexities and challenges
of winter maintenance policy development. The Council did adopt the proposed
ordinance amendments but paused the Snow & Ice Removal Policy conversations.
Although the city has started to take ownership of a limited number of trails, it is still
slower than anticipated and the trail segments remain disconnected throughout the city
making winter maintenance programs less efficient and more costly.
Attached is a city trail map last updated in March of 2023.
Feedback from the Parks & Trails Commission on this information is requested and will
be shared with the City Council as winter maintenance policy development continues.
Financial/Budget
The proposed 2025 budget does not account for any winter maintenance of city trails.
Recommendation
Provide policy recommendations and funding options related to winter maintenance of
city trails.
Attachments
1.Draft Snow & Ice Removal Policy
2.10-26-2023 City Council Staff Report – Street Management Code and Policy Updates
3.City Trail Map (March 2023)
Snow & Ice
POLICY
C I T Y O F C O R C O R A N
7a1.
1
1. PURPOSE
The city shall provide snow and ice management of public streets, trails, parking lots, and other public
facilities in a safe and cost-effective manner to support routine travel and emergency response services.
Snow and ice management services shall be performed while prioritizing the safety of employees and
the public, adhering to the annual budget, observance of private property, and being cognizant of
environmental concerns.
2. POLICY
The Public Works Department will maintain system maps showing the publicly maintained streets,
trails/walks, and parking lots that show routes and priorities. These routes and priorities shall be
reviewed annually to correspond with up to date budgetary, equipment, and personnel resources.
The prioritization of streets, trails, and parking lots shall be based on the city function, relative traffic
volumes, geometrics, and safety considerations. Priorities are designated as A, B or C as shown on the
attached maps, with Priority A routes being treated first. Priority A are routes that consistently see high
traffic volumes, connect major sections of the city, and/or provide access to schools, commercial
businesses, public buildings, and access for emergency fire, police, and medical services. Second tier
Priority B routes consist of lower volume residential streets and neighborhood or off-corridor
trails/walks. The last priority, Priority C, includes cul-de-sacs, public facility hardscapes, and non-critical
parking lots.
Overtime Labor Restrictions are typically defined as 12-hour maximum daily shifts and/or working on
weekends or Holidays. The Public Works Director and/or Operations Superintendent shall approve
deviation from these labor restrictions.
3. COMMENCEMENT OF OPERATIONS
The Public Works Department staff, with the assistance of Public Safety Department staff, will monitor
conditions across the City after snow and ice precipitation events to determine the timing and the
number of personnel and equipment needed to provide a response that meets the goals of this policy.
Typically, the Operations Superintendent will call in staff to start plowing in the early AM hours to stay
ahead of the AM rush hour commute. Plowing operations greatly depend on the duration of a snow and
ice precipitation event, along with amount, temperature, and form of precipitation. No two storms are
the same, so plowing operations shall be adjusted accordingly.
4. ROUTE OPERATIONS
The following are the City’s general guidelines when determining the snow and ice management plan:
A. With snow accumulations less than 1 inch, only Priority A routes will be plowed and/or treated.
In addition to Priority A routes shown on the Snow Plow Map, the City Hall parking lot will be
included as a part of Priority A. If a weather system produces, or is forecasting freezing rain or
ice, additional areas may be treated per Operations Superintendent discretion. Typically, all
work shall be done without the need for overtime labor.
B. With snow accumulation between 1 to 2 inches, all routes shall be maintained, beginning with
Priority A routes and the City Hall parking lot. The management/plowing plan may be
dependent on temperature and time of year as early or late season events may allow for
ambient temperature to actively melt much of the accumulation. Streets shall be
treated/plowed curb to curb with snow pushed onto the boulevard storage area; however, cul-
de-sacs shall only be treated/plowed by one pass along the curb to provide an outlet for the
2
driveways, with snow storage in the middle of the cul-de-sac. Overtime labor restrictions shall
be utilized for Priority B routes.
C.With snow accumulation of more than 2 inches, depending on the rate of accumulation and
other weather factors, Priority A streets and the City Hall parking lot may be treated/plowed
repeatedly during the duration of the storm to keep travel lanes open. Cul-de-sacs will only be
treated/plowed with one pass along the curb to provide an outlet for driveways. Once the
snowfall has ceased, a complete curb-to-curb service will start wherein all streets, trails, and
parking lots are treated/plowed starting with Priority A. In these types of events after the snow
has stopped it may take more than 24 hours to clear Priority A and B routes. Overtime Labor
Restrictions shall be utilized for Priority B routes only.
D.Currently, the City does not have enough accepted trails to support a winter maintenance
program. Staff anticipates implementation of winter trail maintenance as a part of Priority B
routes at the end of 2024/2025.
5.ICE SKATING RINKS
Clearing rinks from a snow event will not begin until after the completion of Priority B duties and will not
be subject to Overtime Labor Restrictions. Daily sweeping and flooding of rinks, other than Sundays and
Holidays, shall be performed while not exceeding 12-hour labor shifts. More information concerning Ice
Skating Rinks can be found on the City’s webpage at this location: Ice Rinks and Warming House - City of
Corcoran (corcoranmn.gov)
6.SNOW STORAGE
Typical snow and ice control efforts require the use of City-owned right-of-way and easements for
storage of plowed snow. Depending upon the volume of snow, available storage within right-of-way can
become limited and/or create sight obstacles. Since it is infeasible to remove snow from all boulevards
and intersection corners, the Operations Superintendent may direct operations to “wing plow”
snowbanks along the right-of-way. This “wing plow” operation results in snow being pushed back
further onto the right-of-way area and thus creates more snow storage in the boulevard for the next
plowing event.
Where space does not allow for a “wing plow” operation, snow will be removed as needed and hauled
to available city property for storage. Timing of such hauling will be at the discretion of the Operations
Superintendent.
7.USE OF SALT
The City shall be conscientious about the detrimental effects of salt on the environment and will
therefore be diligent in its use. The City shall strategically utilize either straight salt or a treated
combination to calibrate the application to the lowest effective amount per lane mile. The goal of this
strategy is to provide sufficient traction for vehicles but is not intended to provide a completely bare/dry
pavement. Application of salt is generally limited to Priority A routes and other steep grades where a
greater need for vehicular traction is warranted. The City shall not be held responsible for damage to
private property caused by the use of salt, and therefore will not make repairs or compensate property
owners for salt damage to areas in the public right-of-way.
8.SUSPENSION OF OPERATIONS
Generally, operations shall continue until applicable route priorities are passable. Widening and clean-
up operations may continue immediately or on the following working day depending upon conditions
3
and circumstances. Safety of the staff and public is of primary importance, and therefore operations
may be terminated by the Superintendent or Director to allow personnel adequate time for rest or in
response to unsafe conditions. Any suspension of operations shall be weighed against the need to
provide access for emergency fire, police, and medical services during a major snow or ice storm.
9.PROPERTY DAMAGE
Snow and ice control operations can cause property damage even under the best of circumstances and
care on the part of the operators. The primary area of potential damage typically relates to private
improvements made within public right-of-way.
A.Mailboxes – Mailboxes shall be constructed sturdily enough to withstand snow rolling off a plow
or wing. While the installation of mailboxes in the public right-of-way is permitted, the mailbox
owner assumes all risk of damage except when a mailbox is damaged through direct contact by
a plow blade, wing, or other piece of snow removal equipment. If the City determines a plow hit
the mailbox, the City will replace the mailbox and post with a standard swing-away mailbox. All
replacement mailboxes and posts, whether installed by the City or property owner must be
installed per the City’s standard detail as shown on the [Mailbox ABC’s] exhibit. Plow operators
make every effort to plow as close to the curb line as possible to provide mail carriers access to
mailboxes. However, it is not possible to align the plow perfectly with the curb while attempting
to minimize damage to mailboxes from indirect contact given the size of equipment, visibility,
and amount of snow pushed into the boulevard. Thus, the final cleaning adjacent to mailboxes is
the responsibility of each resident and subject to the delivery requirements of USPS and other
carriers.
B.Landscaping – The property owner assumes all risk of damage to landscaping, including nursery
and inanimate materials that are installed or encroach into the public right-of-way. The
exception are lawns that are scraped or gouged by snow removal equipment. Under this
scenario, the area will be repaired by top dressing with topsoil and seeding during the following
growing season. At the discretion of the Operations Superintendent, the City may perform
limited ditch sweeping of material as time and resources allow. Property owners are required
to water the areas that are repaired during the establishment period.
C.Irrigation systems – The City will assume no responsibility for irrigation sprinkler heads.
D.Other Private installations - The City will assume no responsibly for exterior lighting systems,
underground electronic dog fences, or any other non-permitted private property installed in
the public right-of-way.
E.Timeframe for claims - The City will assume no responsibility for property damage if a claim is
not received by the City by May 1 of the year following the winter season when damage
occurred.
10.DRIVEWAYS
The City recognizes that one of the most frequent and irritable problems for homeowners resulting
from plowing snow off public streets and trails, is snow deposited in driveways. The operators make
every attempt to minimize the amount of snow deposited in driveways; however, due to the inherent
design of the plow equipment, the amount can still be significant. Due to established priorities and
staffing levels, City personnel do not provide driveway plowing. Exceptions are at the discretion of the
Superintendent if snow accumulation affects emergency services or situations.
11.GARBAGE/RECYCLING CONTAINERS
Commented [ND1]: We will need to modify to our own
mailbox standard and exhibit.
Commented [ND2R1]: Encourage use of swing-away
mailboxes. Will want Council to weigh-in.
4
The container(s) should be set back 3 feet behind the curb line and not placed in the street.
Containers will not be repaired or replaced by the City if damaged during snow removal operations.
12. PARKING
Per City Code Chapter 71.01, on-street parking is prohibited between November 1 and April 1 between
the hours of 1:00 AM and 7:00 AM, and also prohibited when there is 2 inches or more of snow on a
street until the street has been plowed curb to curb. Representatives of the Corcoran Public Safety
Department shall have the authority to impound vehicles in violation of this section.
13. CLEARING AROUND FIRE HYDRANTS
Property owners or occupants are highly encouraged to keep fire hydrants clear of snow to assist the
fire department with emergency response. It is not necessary to clear all the way to the edge of the
street, but it is important to shovel approximately 3 to 4 feet around the hydrant down to the area
where the fire hoses are connected.
14. SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL FROM SIDEWALKS
Per City Code Chapter 82.04, Subd. 2(A), snow and ice removal from public concrete sidewalks abutting
private property is the responsibility of the property owners or occupants (including Homeowners
Associations or other shared maintenance entities). Removal of snow and ice from such concrete
sidewalks shall be completed within 24-hours after the snow and ice has been deposited. Unless a
sidewalk is specifically indicated as part of a route on the City’s trail map, the responsibility is assumed
to be that of the Homeowners Association or property owner.
15. COMPLAINTS/INQUIRIES
Complaints regarding snow and ice control operations, including damage claims, shall be made to the
Public Works Department via phone 8:00AM – 4PM by calling (763) 420-2652 or via email at
pw@corcoranmn.gov. Complaints involving access to property or problems requiring immediate
attention shall be handled on a priority basis. Response time should not exceed forty-eight hours (2
business days) from any complaint. It shall be understood that the complaint responses are to ensure
that the provision of this policy has been fulfilled and that all residents of the city have been treated
uniformly.
16. PLACING SNOW OR ICE IN A PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY
Minnesota Statue 160.27 prohibits plowing, shoveling, blowing or placing snow from private property
onto public streets. Chapter 82.304, Subd. 2(D) of the City Code also prohibits depositing or storing
snow or ice within the public right-of-way. The act of placing snow onto a public street may subject a
person or company to a civil liability if a street hazard such as a slippery area, frozen rut, or bump
occurs and causes a traffic accident. The civil liability may extend to both the property owner and the
person or company who actually placed the snow on the street.
5
Mailbox ABC ’s
Helpful hints to protect your mailbox from the snowplow.
Mailbox
shown is
at CORRECT
height.
Snowplow
blade
CLEARS
the mailbox.
Mailbox
shown is
below the
correct
height.
Snowplow
blade hits
the
mailbox.
Front of mailbox should be flush with the back of the curb.
Bottom of mailbox should be 42 - 45 inches to top of the street.
Newspaper boxes and other containers should be set
back a minimum of 6 inches from the back of the curb.
CITY OF CORCORAN
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
NEWSPAPER
12345 LAKE VIEW
CORRECT
INCORRECT
42
-
4
8
I
N
C
H
E
S
CU
R
B
A
N
D
B
O
X
F
L
U
S
H
MI
N
I
M
U
M
Commented [ND3]: Do we want to use this or create a
different exhibit?
Page 1 of 4
STAFF REPORT Agenda Item 9c.
City Council Meeting:
October 26, 2023
Prepared By:
Kevin Mattson
Natalie Davis McKeown
Topic:
Street Management Code and Policy Updates
Action Required:
Approval
1.Request
Per City Council direction, Staff prepared a Snow and Ice Removal Policy that
discusses winter maintenance as it relates to streets and trails. As a part of this update,
staff identified necessary code amendments to Chapter 71 to provide City staff authority
to tow vehicles when they conflict with street maintenance needs and carry out the
provisions of the Snow and Ice Removal Policy. Additionally, staff took this as an
opportunity to make needed updates to Chapter 70 related to vehicle weight restrictions.
2.Background
Planning for the maintenance of trails has been an ongoing discussion with the Parks
and Trails Commission and City Council in recent years. While the City has not yet
accepted any trails, establishing maintenance policies now is an important component
of preparation as trail construction is finalized. Staff created a draft Snow and Ice
Removal Policy as a starting point to begin to address the larger picture of maintaining
streets and trails during the winter months as this can represent the most challenging
time of year for maintenance. Staff looked at model examples from other metro-area
cities and used Chanhassen’s policy as a template as it appeared to be the most
comprehensive.
A draft Snow and Ice Removal Policy was provided to the Park and Trails Commission
in July for review. The staff report included the following questions to the Commission:
1.Is there support for the general idea/outline of the proposed Snow and Ice
Removal policy?
2.Staff is considering working with Homeowners Associations (HOA) to complete
trail maintenance in the areas where trails are disjointed. What are the
Commissions thoughts on this approach?
3.Mature communities typically prioritize trail maintenance along major roadways,
near schools, near parks, etc. What does the Commission see as the priority trail
routes?
4.What is the Commission’s vision for the maintenance of trails?
a.Is the expectation to have the pavement of all trails be visible?
b.Do we want natural trails that may better accommodate snow activities
such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing?
7a2.
Page 2 of 4
i. If so, what are the trails the Commission believes are best suited
for these activities?
The following feedback was provided to staff:
- There seemed to be general support for the policy.
- A desire to prioritize “in-house” maintenance of the trails.
- Some openness to coordinating with HOA snow removal companies for trail
maintenance where it may make sense.
- A desire to utilize alternative salt options, such as grit.
- Concern that the use of “highly recommended” as it relates to snow removal
around fire hydrants was not strong enough language. The Commission
recommended making this a requirement of the homeowner or HOA snow
removal contractor.
o There was discussion of utilizing fire hydrant coverings, but Public Works
Director Mattson explained these are primarily to protect the hydrants from
salt rather than aiding with snow or ice removal.
- There was some desire to have open space parks to incorporate snow
covered/less groomed trails, but they still wanted to make sure these areas were
maintained to the standard that they can be used for activities such as cross
country skiing.
- There was a define desire to completely clear trails along collector roads.
- There was a consensus that trails should be completed at the same stage as
“street clean-up”. This would currently be included as a part of Priority B.
While this feedback is noted by staff, staff are comfortable with the language currently
proposed in the policy as a starting point for implementation. Some of the feedback will
be incorporated at a later date as trails are accepted, such as defining different
maintenance standards where necessary (e.g., trails along collector roads vs. trails
within open space parks).
3. Analysis
I. Snow and Ice Removal Policy.
The attached Snow and Ice Removal Policy establishes the prioritization of streets,
trails, and parking lots to be maintained. Priorities will eventually be designated as A, B,
or C routes, and this will be depicted on two maps that accompany the policy (a map for
streets and parking lots and a map for trails). It should be noted that at this time the
streets may only be broken down into A and B, and there are no trails that are currently
the City’s responsibility to categorize as part of either route. However, the policy and
priorities will be re-evaluated on at least an annual basis, and due to rapid changes
within the City, the need to include trails and otherwise utilize a C prioritization category
is expected. The policy is expected to grow and adjust as needed.
Page 3 of 4
The county roads throughout the City (as well as the small portion of Highway 55 that
runs along the Corcoran border in the southwest) are not City streets, and therefore are
not subject to the policy. The policy identifies how the prioritization of routes and use of
overtime will be handled for City streets under three scenarios of snow fall: snow
accumulation of less than 1 inch, 1-2 inches, and more than 2 inches.
Additional topics included in the policy are as follows: the maintenance of ice-skating
rinks, snow storage within right-of-way, use of salt, when snow removal operations may
be suspended, how the City intends to handle property damage claims; expectations for
snow deposits within driveways, garbage and recycling containers, parking, fire
hydrants, sidewalks, complaints, and placing snow/ice within a public right-of-way.
Three draft exhibits are included with the policy. A “Mailbox ABC” exhibit, the Snowplow
Routes map for streets, and a trails map. The mailbox exhibit is expected to change as
Public Works may want to encourage the use of swing-away mailboxes. The Snow Plow
Routes map gives an example of how the non-City streets and City routes will be
identified. The Trails map draft does not currently identify any labeled routes since the
City has not accepted any trails. The map provides a starting point that shows where
known trail easements and existing trails are located. As the maintenance of trails is
transitioned to the City, a route designation will be provided for each trail with the
expectation that trails will initially be included as a part of Priority B routes.
Feedback on the current proposed processes will be helpful. Specifically, staff would
like feedback on the following:
1.Overtime decisions.
2.Property damage claims.
a.Currently, staff go out to fix property damage, such as mailboxes, when
warranted. Other cities have alternative approaches, such as
reimbursements up to a maximum amount as a way to prioritize staff time.
b.Does the Council want staff to evaluate switching to a reimbursement
option?
i.Would this apply to only mailboxes or irrigation systems as well?
3.Encouraging the use of swing-away mailboxes as the recommended standard.
4.In the long term, City staff and the Parks and Trails Commission believe we
should prioritize in-house maintenance of trails.
a.Does the Council support an interim approach where the City reimburses
HOAs for trail maintenance after a trail has been accepted in instances
where coordination makes sense, such as segmented trails?
b.If there is support for this interim plan, City staff would look into how this
process would work (contracts, insurance, etc.) to implement at the end of
2024/2025.
Page 4 of 4
If the Council is in general agreement with the policy, staff recommends officially
adopting the policy at the October 26th meeting or as soon as possible to be able to
implement it with the upcoming winter season.
II.Chapter 71 – Parking Regulations
In conjunction with the Snow and Ice Removal policy, the City Code must be updated to
explicitly authorize staff to be able to tow and impound vehicles that violate parking
regulations, obstruct traffic, and/or hinder the City’s ability to complete duties such as
snow removal, street improvements, maintenance operations, or firefighting. Language
to this effect is added to Chapter 71 based on verbiage used in the Chanhassen and
Roseville city codes. This can be found in Section 2 of the attached Ordinance.
III.Chapter 70 – Traffic Rules
The process for weight restrictions outlined in City Code is out of date with the City’s
current practices. In an effort to maximize the time of City staff, the update to Chapter
71 was seen as an opportunity to make needed updates to Chapter 70. The proposed
changes align with the current practices related to managing weight restrictions,
including identifying the Public Works Director as the authority to issue overweight
permits when necessary. These changes can be found in Section 1 of the attached
Ordinance.
5.Recommendation
Staff recommends the City Council approve the following:
1.Ordinance 2023-503 Amending Chapter 70 and 71 Related to Traffic Rules and
Parking Regulations.
a.Simple majority required.
2.Resolution 2023-89 Approving the Snow and Ice Removal Policy and Findings of
Fact for the Amendments to Title VII.
a.Simple majority required.
3.Summary Ordinance 2023-504 for Publication
a.4/5 majority required.
Attachments:
1.Snow and Ice Removal Policy.
2.Ordinance 2023-503 Amending Chapter 70 and 71 Related to Traffic Rules and
Parking Regulations.
3.Resolution 2023-89 Approving the Snow and Ice Removal Policy and Findings of
Fact for Amendments to Tile VII.
4.Summary Ordinance 2023-504 for publication.
Current as of 03/26/2024
7a3.
Current as of 03/26/2024
STAFF REPORT Agenda Item: 8a.
Commission Meeting
November 21, 2024
Prepared By
Kevin Mattson
Topic
Boardwalk in Bellwether Design
Action Required
Direction
Summary
As part of the Bellwether development, the construction of a boardwalk was planned
across a large wetland area connecting the Open Space Park to the Amenity Center.
The design details for the boardwalk have not been finalized. Staff has been working
with the developer to move the project forward. The next steps are to collect Parks &
Trails Commission recommendations and tentatively bring to Council for final approval
on November 25th.
Attached is an engineering memorandum identifying the minimum design requirements
for the commission’s review and consideration.
Additionally, in discussion with the developer, there may be an opportunity to apply
other developer financial commitments towards supplementary boardwalk design
elements. Staff is seeking feedback on the value of including the following design
components:
•Viewing lookout over the natural area
•Educational signage
•Electrical toe lighting
•Other
It is important to note that the required baseline boardwalk design is for pedestrian use
only thus winter maintenance operations for the boardwalk are not planned or budgeted.
Financial/Budget
The developer is responsible for the construction of the boardwalk in compliance with
the baseline design requirements and any other potential negotiated design elements.
Additional structural costs associated with increasing the design to support vehicle
loading is significant and would be the responsibility of the city.
Options
1.Recommend baseline boardwalk design with input on priorities for potential
supplementary design elements.
2.Recommend enhanced structural design with input on priorities for potential
supplementary design elements.
Page 2
3.Other combinations.
4.Decline.
Recommendation
Direct staff to recommend Option 1 - Baseline boardwalk design with input on priorities
for potential supplementary design elements.
Council Action
Consider a motion to direct staff to recommend Option 1 - Baseline boardwalk design
with input on priorities for potential supplementary design elements.
Attachments
1.Engineering Memorandum
Memo
To: Kevin Mattson, PE, Public Works
Director
Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation
Supervisor
From: Steve Hegland, PE
Project: Bellwether Boardwalk Design Elements Date: November 1, 2025
This Memorandum is provided to create a summary of the design elements which are to be incorporated into
the boardwalk requirements as required of Pulte Homes related to the Bellwether development.
Boardwalk Location
The location of the boardwalk is directly to the west of the Bellwether amenity center which completes the
connection to two 8-foot wide local trails. Below is an image of the trail and boardwalk. The actual limits of the
trail may be slightly different than what is shown below depending on some of the elevations and
requirements as outlined in this memo.
Boardwalk Location
Boardwalk Elevation
The City of Corcoran requires that all trails be installed one foot above the high water level (HWL) of any
adjacent ponds or wetlands. The HWL is the elevation that the ponded water within the pond or wetland is
expected to rise to during the 100-year stormwater event. The City requires all trails to be constructed to this
standard to ensure they are accessible and not inundated and therefore unusable during prolonged wet
periods. As this boardwalk is an extension of the trail network, we would recommend that this standard be
uniformly applied to the boardwalk as well.
8a1.
November 1, 2024
Bellwether Boardwalk Design Elements
Page 2 of 3
Within the Bellwether development, the large wetland complex which this boardwalk crosses is utilized for
stormwater storage and irrigation reuse by the development by routing additional water to this area than what
had previously occurred. The stormwater management plan completed at the time of the development
indicated that this wetland previously had a HWL of 933.0 which was increased to 933.4 with the proposed
development.
Based on a HWL of 933.4 and the City requirement for trails to be one foot above that elevation, we would
recommend the boardwalk be constructed to a minimum elevation of 934.4. The lowest existing ground
elevations within this wetland is 929.5 which means that this boardwalk may be nearly 5’ high in some
locations.
Boardwalk Design Elements
The Boardwalk shall generally be constructed in accordance with design requirements as outlined below.
Pulte Homes has provided a concept boardwalk section as well as example pictures of the boardwalk is
proposed. The concept design and pictures are included in Appendix A to this memo. The final design shall
incorporate any additional items that are outlined in this memo but may not specifically be noted in those
Appendix A
The following elements shall be incorporated into the final design
· A portion of the boardwalk is through the portion of the wetland which was excavated for stormwater
management and the supports will be underwater and of significant height. A design for these
supports including accommodations for being within water shall be provided with the final design. This
design may require a larger span of the waterway and with structural supports or a structural design
capable of providing support in the elements.
· The posts shall be treated to level UC4C or UC3B per the American Wood Protection Association.
· The boardwalk shall have an 8’ wide clear width throughout the entire design.
· The boardwalk shall have a toe kick or siderail depending on the fall height at the specific locations
· In areas in which the boardwalk is 30” or more above the ground, a railing shall be required. The
railing shall be constructed of wood and will incorporate wood or a steel cable railing system.
· Boardwalk shall be designed to a design loading capacity of 60psf live loading.
o This should be incorporated into both the member design and footing design
· Footings or any structural posts should be treated lumber or other water-resistant materials.
Design Package
The final design package for the boardwalk shall incorporate the following elements.
· A site plan should be provided with the final design showing the various boardwalk element
components and elevations
· A final design including drawings certified by a structural engineer as was certified design calculations
should be submitted.
· A design of the footings should be provided by a geotechnical engineer certifying their design.
o This should include soil borings along the corridor to confirm geotechnical conditions and
assumptions.
November 1, 2024
Bellwether Boardwalk Design Elements
Page 3 of 3
Appendix A
Boardwalk Example #1
Boardwalk Example #2
Boardwalk Example #3
STAFF REPORT Agenda Item: 8b.
Parks and Trails Commission Meeting
November 21, 2024
Prepared By
Kevin Mattson
Topic
Former Cropland Seeding
Action Required
Direction
Summary
The city needs to identify a long-term maintenance plan for City owned parcels
previously rented as cropland due to changes in Hennepin County tax policy.
The Council requested that staff seek input from the Parks & Trails Commission on
several fields located within the City Park property (see Attachment 1) particularly with
the on-going Park Planning efforts.
Staff previously researched four potential grant programs for city land along County
Road 116 that is outlined below. Each of these programs provide varying levels of
oversight and funding.
1.Partners for Fish and Wildlife- Private Lands Program (US Fish and Wildlife
Service)- Partners for Wildlife Grasslands Restoration
•Funding – Minimum of 50% cost-share on restoration
•Length of agreement – 15 years for most projects
•Benefits: improve water soil quality, facilitate flood control, restore wildlife habitat,
maintain natural landscape of historic Corcoran
•City Responsibility:
o Control noxious weeds
o Cover remaining restoration costs
•Notes:
o Priority given to sites with adjacent wetland or restorable wetland
o Minimum 10 acres
o No haying/grazing allowed
2.Hennepin County Cost Share Programs- Hennepin County (watersheds)
•Funding – Up to 90% cost share on restoration
•Length of agreement – 10 years for most projects
•Benefits: Protects and improves soil, surface water and groundwater, maintain natural
landscape of historic Corcoran
•City Responsibility: cover remaining restoration costs
•Notes:
o Takes time to implement. 9-18 months
Up to 4 months for project selection
Project Design- 6-8 months
Contracting Phase- 0-2 months
Page 2
Project Installation- 0-4 months
o Project review occurs quarterly- projected application for September or
December review
3.Hennepin County Habitat Conservation Program (Lessard Sams Outdoor Heritage
Grant) Partner Restoration Enhancement
•Funding – Up to 100% for Initial restoration (First 5 year after prairie establishment) after
that management costs are on the partner.
•Length of Agreement – 10 year minimum
•Benefits: Restore native prairie grasses, restore wildlife habitat, maintain natural
landscape of historic Corcoran
•City Responsibility:
o Control noxious weeds – 2029 and beyond
o Manage prescribed burns every 3 years (1st burn managed by Hennepin County)
Haying is an alternative to burning
•Notes:
o Program only eligible for lands that are permanently protected.
4.Foresters of Hennepin County
•Funding- Up to 100% for initial reforestation (First 5 years of agreement Hennepin
County would maintain) after that the City would be responsible for maintenance and
associated costs.
•Length of Agreement- At least 15 years. 15 year ROE agreement.
•Benefits: Wildlife habitat creation, cleaner air and water
•City Responsibility: Maintenance and associated costs after 5 years.
•Notes:
o Preference would be for the land to be for public use.
o Trees could be put into carbon credit agreement.
o New program in development stages- no brochure available at this time.
Financial/Budget
No immediate financial impacts. If desired, and directed by Council, staff would work
with agency partners to identify eligible grant programs and bring back additional
information.
Options
1.Identify field(s) and direct staff to recommend pursuing options above with
agency partners if desired.
2.Decline.
Recommendation
Identify field(s) and direct staff to recommend pursuing options above with agency
partners if desired.
Page 3
Attachments
1.Map of City Park
2.Partners for Fish and Wildlife- Partners for Wildlife Grasslands Restoration
Information
3.Hennepin County Cost Share Programs Information
4.Hennepin County Habitat Conservation Program (Lessard Sams Outdoor
Heritage Grant) Information
5.Ecological Improvement Plan- Cost Share Project on County Road 116 property
Parcel 2, PID 23-119-23-34-0001, 20400 County Road 50,
Fields 1-3
16.8 acres
8b1.
CONSERVATION PROGRAMS
The goal of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is to help private landowners
restore or improve habitat for all types of wildlife, including birds, mammals,
fish, and even endangered species. A landowner can choose from a variety of
programs to conserve, protect and enhance wildlife habitat. Landowners,
along with conservation groups and government agencies, can also take
advantage of free expert advice from biologists on ways to improve or restore
wildlife habitat on the lands they own or manage.
PARTNERS FOR WILDLIFE WETLANDS RESTORATION
Benefits: Improve water and soil quality, restore wildlife
habitat, and facilitate flood control
Length of Agreement: 10 years for most projects
Payment: Minimum of 50% cost-share on restoration
work Eligibility: Areas where a small ditch can be
plugged or tile can be broken to restore wetlands
Provisions: No dugouts, only restorations
Landowner controls access
No restriction on haying or grazing
All restoration efforts can be removed at end of
contract period at landowner expense
Priority given to large drained wetlands or multiple
basins
Sign-up Period: Continuous sign-up
Contact: Mike Malling (Partners Biologist) Phone: 763-772-8159 text or voice
MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Wetland Management District, 15865 Rapids Lake Road Carver, MN 55315
Website: https://www.fws.gov/program/partners-fish-and-wildlife
PARTNERS FOR WILDLIFE GRASSLANDS RESTORATION
Benefits: Improve water and soil quality, restore wildlife
habitat, enhance pollinator habitat, and facilitate flood
control
Length of Agreement: 15 years for most projects
Payment: Minimum of 50% cost-share on restoration
work Eligibility: A minimum site of 10 acres of uplands
is preferred with existing or restorable wetlands
present Provisions: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or
local conservation organization may work with
landowner to prepare and seed site
Priority given to sites with existing or restorable
wetlands in the adjacent area
Landowner controls access weeds
No haying or grazing is typically allowed
All restoration efforts can be removed at end of
contract period at landowner expense
Sign-up Period: Continuous sign-up
PARTNERS FOR WILDLIFE GRASSLANDS RESTORATION
U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE HABITAT EASEMENT
U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE WETLAND EASEMENT
Benefits: Improve water and soil quality, restore wildlife
habitat, and facilitate flood control
Length of Agreement: Perpetual, easement recorded on
property deed
Payment: One lump payment based on fair market value.
Easement values are determined by a U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service appraiser
Eligibility: Naturally occurring or restorable wetlands
Provisions: Landowner agrees not to drain, burn, level, or
fill in wetland
Wetlands existing in high quality habitat areas are
given priority
Landowner maintains ownership, controls access, and
pays taxes
Landowner retains right to hay, graze, and farm
wetlands covered when conditions allow
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service maintains right to
manage wetland
Sign-up Period: Continuous sign-up easement
U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE WETLAND EASEMENT
Benefits: Improve water and soil quality, restore wildlife
habitat, enhance pollinator habitat, and facilitate flood
control
Length of Agreement: Perpetual, easement recorded on
property deed
Payment: One lump payment based on fair market value.
Easement values are determined by a U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service appraiser. Payment varies with
restrictions on use and location of the easement
Eligibility: Tracts of land with existing or restorable
wetlands and grasslands
Provisions: Landowner agrees not to drain, burn, level, or
fill in wetlands nor to destroy adjacent grassland cover
Priority given to lands that are in close proximity to
other protected areas
Landowner maintains ownership, controls access, and
pays taxes
Varied use options that may allow haying and/or
grazing in some situations
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service maintains right to
manage habitat on the easement
Sign-up Period: Continuous sign-up easement
8b2.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Cost share for conservation project selection
and implementation: steps and timeline
The process of installing a cost share project typically takes 9-18 months. The
timeline depends on several factors including funding availability, staff time,
contractor availability, complexities related to neighbors and drainage, and your
goals and availability. No one project is the same as the next, but this document
describes the general steps involved with installing a cost share for conservation
project. These steps may occur in a slightly different order depending on the
specific circumstances of each project.
Entities involved in establishing a cost share for conservation project
You, the landowner
Landowners or renters are interested in installing a conservation practice on their land that
protects and improves soil, surface water, and/or groundwater. You will meet with Hennepin
County staff to share information about your property and review draft documents and project
designs to provide feedback.
Hennepin County
Hennepin County is interested in improving the quality of soil, surface water, and/or groundwater
through the installation of conservation practices. County staff will meet with you to gather initial
information and offer support and guidance during the project. County staff will also work with you
long-term to ensure the conservation practice functions properly over its lifetime (typically 10 years).
Technical Assistance Provider (engineer or Hennepin County staff)
Technical assistance will include project design and oversight of project implementation. Your
technical assistance provider will be an engineer or Hennepin County staff with credentials to
design the conservation practice and certify it following installation. All three parties will regularly
communicate about the progress of the project.
8b3.
Phase 1: Initial contact and project selection (up to four months)
1. Initial conversation
This conversation often happens over the phone or a video meeting. You might initiate it by
reaching out to county staff, or we might initiate it by sending you a postcard or a letter. We
will need to know:
a. Physical address (or location) of the property
b. Your relationship to the property (e.g., owner, renter, family member of owner)
c. As much information as you can provide about the types of projects that interest you
or the issue with the property that concerns you
d. Photos are helpful but not necessary
2. Site visit
The initial conversation is followed by a visit to the property by county staff to meet you
and learn more about your goals. Following this, you will receive a summary of the visit,
recommendations, and next steps. If you are not interested in financial assistance, county staff
may recommend continued technical assistance at this stage, which will be outlined in the
visit summary.
3. Sign Letter of Intent
If you are interested in seeking financial assistance for a project, you sign a Letter of Intent to
affirm your understanding of the project process and commitments. Signing and returning
the Letter of Intent allows county staff to begin the evaluation process.
4. Project evaluation
County staff review potential projects quarterly (March, June, September, and December).
This review considers a project’s alignment with county priorities, approximate water quality
benefit, approximate project cost, and any anticipated feasibility concerns. The result of this
evaluation could be three things:
• Your project may be selected for financial assistance immediately
• Your project may be held for future consideration
• Your project may not be selected to receive financial assistance – in this case, county staff
may offer to provide additional technical assistance or connect you to other resources.
5. Decision
County staff will communicate the decision to you within two weeks of the project evaluation
meeting. Substitute W9: If your project is selected to move forward, you will need to sign a
substitute W9. Cost share projects cannot advance to the design phase without submission
of a substitute W9. This form gathers the necessary info (a social security number or tax
identification number) to set you up in our accounting system and eventually receive
payment after you are under contract and work is completed.
Phase 2: Project design phase (six to eight months)
You will proceed to phase two if you are selected for financial assistance.
6. Design development
Hennepin County staff will work with you and the technical assistance provider to develop
project designs.
Your project will likely require permitting from your city or local watershed organization.
We will also begin researching the project’s permitting needs at this stage.
7. Provide feedback on draft designs
Before designs are finalized, you and any stakeholders involved will review and provide
comments. Stakeholders may include other people who use the land (farm operator, etc.),
permitting agencies (e.g. city or watershed organization), or funding partners. This is also a
good time to begin looking for contractors to construct the project (if applicable). You are
responsible for hiring a contractor to install the project according to plans approved by the
county. While we cannot provide specific recommendations, we maintain a list of contractors
that can be contacted for quotes.
8. Submit project and permit applications
At this stage, with project benefits and costs more firmly understood, you will be asked to
submit a project application. The application signifies your continued intent to complete the
project as designed. It also gives the county a chance to verify that the benefits of the project
are sufficient to justify the investment. You will be notified about our decision within 2 weeks
of submitting the application. If the application is approved, both parties agree to dedicate
funding to designing and implementing your project. At this stage you will also submit
permit applications. County staff can help with this.
Absolutely no costs related to the project may occur until the project application is
approved by the county.
Note: You are never required or obligated to complete the project. You can walk away at any time, before or
after you submit the application.
9. Review and finalize designs
Hennepin County staff will review the design plans with edits from you and any stakeholders
to ensure revisions were incorporated correctly. Your contractor (if applicable) should be
part of this plan review. Once everyone is satisfied, final plans will then be provided to you in
preparation for contracting and installation phases. If you haven’t yet selected a contractor,
you should do so at this stage.
Phase 3: Contracting phase (up to two months)
10.Sign County Contract and Operations & Maintenance Agreement
County contract: You will be asked to sign a project contract with the county which outlines
how the county will reimburse you for costs you incur as part of the project. A signed project
contract allows us to prepare our systems to reimburse you once the project is complete.
Operations and Maintenance Agreement: An Operations and Maintenance Agreement
will be included as an attachment to the county contract. This will serve as your guide for
maintenance required over the lifespan of the project (typically 10 years).
11.Installation “go-ahead” is given
Once all the necessary documents and contracts have been signed, Hennepin County will
give the landowner and contractor the “go-ahead” for project installation to begin. For an
engineered project, this involves a pre-construction meeting between you, your contractor,
the county, and the technical assistance provider.
Phase 4: project installation and wrap up (up to four months)
12.Construction begins
Any time after you receive the “go-ahead” from county staff, your contractor may begin work.
You or your contractor will need to communicate regularly with county staff while project
work is occurring. County staff will stop by occasionally to take photos and ensure that
the project is installed according to the design plans and can work with you, the technical
assistance provider, and your contractor to help make any necessary adjustments to the
design plans.
Any change to the plan needs to be approved by county staff and the technical assistance
provider prior to work occurring.
13.Final inspection upon project completion
After the project is finished, county staff and the technical assistance provider will visit your
property and review the project to make sure it was installed according to the design plans.
If everything looks good, your project will be certified. At this point, we will also review your
Operations and Maintenance Agreement and make any necessary adjustments. As part of this
agreement, county staff will also inspect your project at the one-, three-, six-, and nine-year
marks after installation is complete, but are available to you at any time you have a question
or concern.
14.Reimbursement
Your contractor will provide you an invoice for the project. To be reimbursed, the invoice and
supporting documentation must include:
•Name of contractor
•Materials, labor, or equipment provided
•Itemized unit costs
•Invoice date, including the date(s) work was performed
If you are counting any of your time as contribution to the project, you will need to keep track
by date and the type of activity you performed. Keep all receipts of incurred costs related
to the project (e.g., materials, permit fees). Contractor invoices, receipts, and time tracking
(if applicable) are needed to prepare a voucher requesting reimbursement. Payment will be
issued within 35 days. In some circumstances you may need to pay a contractor prior to
receiving reimbursement from the county.
15.Routine inspections
County staff will continue to be in touch to make sure all is going well with your project.
Required inspections will occur one-, three-, six-, and nine- years after the date of project
installation and certification. We will not arrive to inspect your project without coordinating
a time that works for you. If you move or sell the property, we ask that you provide the new
property owner with information about the project and let us know the new contact
information for the property owner.
If you’re interested in a cost share project, please reach out to:
Kevin Ellis – Conservation Specialist
Hennepin County Environment and Energy
612-382-3956
kevin.ellis@hennepin.us
Roz Davis – Conservation Specialist
Hennepin County Environment and Energy
952-262-0397
rozalyn.davis@hennepin.us
You can also submit questions to our online interest form by
using this QR code or at hennepin.us/conservation-interest
Prairie Restoration Timeline (General): This example is partnering with Hennepin County and
utilizing their Lessard Sams Outdoor Heritage Grant funding. Hennepin would use grant funds for
getting the habitat established but after the first prescribed burn in 2029 (or whatever date that is)
the partner organization will be managing the lands, but we are here always for technical advice
and questions.
Habitat Objective Priority
Management
Objectives
Responsible
Parties and
Funding
Sources
Timing and Costs (external 5 years, internal 5+
years)
2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030
Prairie
General Restore
Site Prep
(herbicide/disk)
Hennepin
County $1.200/ac
Acquire Seed
Mix
Hennepin
County $800/ac
Broadcast
Seeding
Hennepin
County $800/ac
Release Mows
(3 times)
Hennepin
County $900/ac
IPM
Hennepin
County $900/ac $900/ac $900/ac
Partner Org. IN-KIND
RX Burn
Hennepin
County
$10,000
Partner Org.
Optional:
Haying Partner Org.
IN-KIND = Non-monetary contribution (Actions that don’t require hiring someone else to do the job) MATCH = Monetary contribution (Actions that
require hiring someone else to do the job)
Habitat Objective Priority
Management
Objectives
Responsible
Parties and
Funding
Sources
Timing and Costs (external 5 years, internal 5+
years)
2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037
Prairie
General Restore
IPM
Hennepin
County
Partner Org. IN-KIND IN-KIND IN-KIND IN-KIND IN-KIND
RX Burn
Hennepin
County
Partner Org. $10,000 $10,000
Optional:
Haying Partner Org. IN-KIND IN-KIND
IN-KIND = Non-monetary contribution (Actions that don’t require hiring someone else to do the job) MATCH = Monetary contribution (Actions that
require hiring someone else to do the job)
8b4.
Example Timeline details:
2024
a.September: mow down existing vegetation and disk or field cultivate to prepare
seedbed.
b.October: if green up of weeds occurs in the month after disking, conduct herbicide
treatment to target unwanted vegetation.
c.November: if herbicide treatment was utilized follow herbicide label for timing of
seeding in natives. If herbicide treatment was not utilized, try to time seeding for
mid-November. Either utilize a broadcast seeder followed by a cultipacker or a no -
till drill.
2025
d.Early June: conduct first release mow. When vegetation gets to a height of 10 -12”
cut back vegetation to 8-10”.
e.Early July: Release Mow.
f.Early August: Release Mow.
2026
g.Early July: Integrated Plant Management for noxious or invasive plants (Thistle). Cut
the heads off. Try not to utilize herbicides this year.
2027
h.Early July: Integrated Plant Management for noxious or invasive plants (Thistle). Spot
spray.
2028
i.Early July: Integrated Plant Management for noxious or invasive plants (Thistle). Spot
spray.
2029 and beyond
j.Every year in late June: monitor the prairie for noxious weeds and cut off the seed
heads, or manually pull, or spot spray.
k.Prescribed burns will happen on 3 year intervals starting with 2029. Next burn is
2032. If a burn cannot be conducted there is always an option to hay off the site in
fall as an alternative.
Just a note: As partners on this project, we are always available anytime for technical
assistance with this project at any time.
Ecological Improvement Plan
Prairie Restoration : City of Corcoran
SECTION 1 – Location Information
Site ID: City of Corcoran 116 Prairie
Current Landowner: City of Corcoran
Address: CR 116
Email/Phone Number:
PID: 1311923320001
Staff main contact: Kevin Mattson and Matt Stasica
SECTION 2 – Goals and Current Conditions
Current Conditions and goals
The Project Area is currently a crop field. The goal is to restore the uplands in this area to native prairie. This will
encompass 27 acres.
o Primary Management Objectives include: 1) restoring native prairie communities within the uplands, 2)
enhancing prairie areas through adaptive management.
o Primary goals include improving ecological function, increasing native vegetation cover, diversity, and
habitat structure, and increasing habitat for Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN).
Objective is to 1) Restore and manage upland crop areas to a prairie ecosystem.
Conservation Value (why did we select this Project)
Location:
The Protected Property adds to a complex of protected public and private conservation lands that provide wildlife
habitat, water quality, and scenic open space. Three Rivers Park District’s Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, along with three
other private conservation easements, contribute to the immediate matrix of protected lands. The Protected Property
adds large tracts of natural habitat and shoreline to the Hennepin County Habitat Conservation Program, as well as to
the Land Trust’s Twin Cities Metro Priority Conservation Program Area.
Natural Resources:
The area is next to a large wetland complex; a restored prairie will provide habitat and refugia for many grassland birds,
pollinators, and small mammals. This project also has some benefit to carbon sequestration and also water quality
benefits as well.
Future Habitat Management Goals
1.Continue to monitor prairie for Integrated Plant management for noxious weeds or introduced vegetation.
2.Continue to provide a major disturbance (prescribed burn, haying, grazing) every three years following the
first prescribed burn in 2029.
8b5.
Project MAP
SECTION 3 – Five Year Plan
City of Corcoran 116 Prairie Restoration/Management
2024
a. October/November conduct tillage with a pull behind field cultivator or disk to turn soil, bury residue,
and prepare seed bed. Disking depth will be 3-6”.
b. After disking, prepare seed bed by using a Cultipacker to get a firm seed bed.
c. Once seed bed is smooth, acquire MN State Seed Mix 35-641 Mesic Prairie SE and broadcast the seed at
the rate indicated on seed tag. Best time to seed is before a snow event. This will allow the seed to be
protected over the winter from birds and small mammals. Also, when the snow thaws and freezes up
again in the spring, it will stratify and scarify the seed getting it ready for germination.
d. Provide Hennepin County the seed tag prior to seeding to ensure proper seed mix.
2025
e. June: Conduct a release mow when the vegetation reaches a height of 10 -12”. Use a flail mower to cut
vegetation back to 6-8”. Flail mower will prevent any furrows
f. July: Conduct a release mow when the vegetation reaches a height of 10 -12”. Use a flail mower to cut
vegetation back to 6-8”.
g. August: Conduct a release mow when the vegetation reaches a height of 10 -12”. Use a flail mower to
cut vegetation back to 6-8”.
2026
h. June, July, or August: Do 1 IPM treatment for noxious weeds in the prairie. Do not use herbicides. Just
cut off the heads of patches of noxious weeds. Don’t mow the entire prairie.
2027
i. June, July, or August: Do 1 IPM treatment for noxious weeds in the prairie. You may use herbicides that
are selective, but only spot treat, do not broadcast spray. Herbicides that may be effective include
milestone or transline. Talk with Hennepin County before conducting herbicide application. OR - Just cut
off the heads of patches of noxious weeds. But do not mow the entire prairie.
2028
j. June, July, or August: Do 1 IPM treatment for noxious weeds in the prairie. You may use herbicides that
are selective, but only spot treat, do not broadcast spray. Herbicides that may be effective include
milestone or transline. Talk with Hennepin County before conducting herbicide application. OR - Just cut
off the heads of patches of noxious weeds. But do not mow the entire prairie.
2029
k. Prescribed burn in fall for half of the prairie.
2030 and beyond
l. Prescribed burn for the other half of the prairie in spring or fall.
m. Every year in June: monitor the prairie/savanna for noxious weeds and either cut off the seed
heads/pull/spot spray.
n. Prescribed burns will happen on 3-year intervals starting with 2029. Alternate burning off one half of the
area in 2029 and the other in the year following to provide refugia for wildlife.
Cost/Estimates & Funding Sources – total $221,500
Managem
ent Unit
Objectives Priority
Management
Objectives – Main
Steps
Landowner or
Partner
Responsibilities
and Potential
Funding Sources
Timing and Costs (external 5 years, internal 5+ years)
2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030
MU4 –
Prairie Restoration
Site Prep City of Corcoran
In-Kind $1,275
Seed Acquisition
Hennepin
County Cost
Share
$30,500
Prairie Seeding City of Corcoran
In-Kind $509
Release Mows City of Corcoran
In-Kind $1,528
IPM
Hennepin
County Cost-
Share
$6,800 $4,800 $4,800
Easement
Owner
RX Burn Hennepin
County $23,175
IN-KIND = Non-monetary contribution (Actions that don’t require hiring someone else to do the job) MATCH = Monetary contribution (Actions that require hiring someone else to do the job)
SECTION 4 – Project Evaluation & Adaptive Management
R/E Performance Goals
Restoration of Corcoran 116 Prairie Estimated
Habitat Criteria Metric Current
Conditions
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Prairie Pioneering
Woody Species
% relative cover NA 0 0 1 2 2
Prairie Native grasses
and forbs
% relative cover NA 5 50 70 90 95
All Types Noxious Weeds % relative cover NA 25 10 8 8 5
R/E Performance Tracking & Adaptive Management
Restoration of Corcoran 116 Prairie Measured
Habitat Criteria Metric Initial
Conditions
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Prairie Pioneering
Woody Species
% relative cover NA
Prairie Native grasses
and forbs
% relative cover NA
All Types Noxious Weeds % relative cover NA
Management Plan Adjustments:
The Protected Property should regularly be monitored for invasive species, including plants, pests, and pathogens.
Specifically, search for existing invasive species that currently occur in low abundances (e.g., reed canary grass), species
that are known to occur near the property but are not currently present (e.g., buckthorn), and species that are new to
the region (e.g., emerald ash borer). Monitoring should occur at least two times during the growing season, ideally in
early summer (May/June) and later summer (late-July/August). Spacing monitoring throughout the growing season will
capture the different blooming times of different plant species. Conduct monitoring along trails, roadsides, and
disturbed areas such as recent canopy openings and areas recovering from fire, as these are the most likely areas of new
infestations.
STAFF REPORT Agenda Item 8c.
Commission Meeting:
November 21, 2024
Prepared By:
Jessica Christensen Buck
Topic:
See My Legacy and Park Enhancement
Program
Action Required:
Direction
Summary:
See My Legacy is a community engagement platform to help with memorial programs,
sponsorships/fundraisers, and volunteering within the City. During further exploring,
staff has discovered a variety of uses that this platform could be incorporated into
including the park enhancement program, park fundraising, and volunteer impacts.
Staff has been working to update the park enhancement program from the original
memorial program that was focused on benches and bricks in the Memorial Garden.
Staff is anticipating bringing the finalized copy to the December 19, 2024, Parks and
Trails Commission meeting with the intention to make final edits before bringing it to
City Council in early 2025. Attached is the most recent draft of the park enhancement
program that was presented to the Parks and Trails Commission during the June 20,
2024, meeting.
Park Enhancement Program (PEP)
See My Legacy has a campaign option (shown as Memorial Programs) that allow for
enhancements to be described, mapped, and process payments online. As part of this,
there is a mapping feature that shows the proposed locations of the enhancements and
fundraising opportunities for donors to choose from.
An additional option as part of the See My Legacy platform are QR codes that allow
donors to add more than the limited number of characters on a plaque. When scanned,
the QR code takes the user to a webpage created by the donor that can further tell the
story of the donation. These stories are written online by the donor and go through an
approval process on the back end by staff, prior to publishing. Stories remain online for
10 years after the contract with See My Legacy which would coincide with the most
recent draft of the Park Enhancement Program for enhancement lifecycles. The QR
code plaques come in 3 sizes, and are an additional cost, but could be incorporated to
the cost of the enhancement. These plaques can also be purchased in bulk (25, 50,
100)for a cost savings option.
City Park benches, bike racks, etc. could be included on the platform as locations are
determined within the project. This would allow for further project savings, while creating
an opportunity for the community to create a lasting impact on the new park.
Park Fundraising
Discussion during the October 24, 2024, City Council meeting further expressed a need
for additional funding for the City Park project. Through the Sponsorship + Fundraisers
campaign, City Park could be broken down into separate amenity options, allowing for
support of amenities the donor chooses through an online system (e.g., splashpad,
playground, etc.).
This type of campaign could also serve as a primary location for support towards the
Wacker/Espeseth family’s fundraising for the playground. With the ability to include
additional stories, photos, and donation meter, this provides additional aesthetics that
can encourage further donations through storytelling.
This could be expanded to parks beyond just City Park if there are specialty amenities,
added features, or other circumstances that would encourage fundraising.
Night to Unite Volunteering
Included with the platform is a volunteer event option that lists roles, descriptions, and
times for volunteering opportunities. Staff could use this for Night to Unite as it is a 54-
volunteer slot sign up. There is added visibility for the sign up if included on See My
Legacy, should it be approved, as people are looking at potential donations.
Currently, staff is utilizing SignUpGenius and would continue to utilize this, or a similar
platform, should See My Legacy not be approved.
See My Legacy compiles these areas to one site, allowing a centralized location for
donations and volunteering. The cost of the subscription is for one year and could be
started in 2025 as the Park Enhancement Program is finalized and
enhancements/amenities for City Park are determined. Included in the subscription cost
is the site, unlimited users (staff), user (staff) support, and the online features such as
the QR code stories. The annual subscription for See My Legacy was quoted at
$1,529.10 (discounted from $2,499 annually). There is a standard processing fee from
Stripe Payment Processing of 3.65% for credit card payments and 0.65% for ACH.
The online functions of this platform offer options that would assist in streamlining and
clarifying the process, while also fundraising for the City Park project. This would also
allow for staff to focus time on searching for other funding opportunities, such as grants,
and less time processing payments.
The subscription would be for one-year, and should the City not want to renew in 2026,
they can choose not to, allowing for evaluation of adjustments or success. With the QR
codes being good for 10 years after the contract, the stories would last the lifecycle of
the enhancement, and this could be included as a kickoff to the park enhancement
program.
Financial/Budget:
Funding for the first year of the subscription is proposed to come from 100-45100-50210
(Recreation Operating Supplies) as the expiration for the discounted rate of $1,529.10 is
available until November 26, 2024, to allow subsequent time for presentation at Parks
and Trails Commission and City Council.
Options:
1.Approval to proceed with See My Legacy in 2025 using funds from 100-45100-
50210.
2.Decline request to proceed with See My Legacy in 2025.
3.Provide alternative direction to staff.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends utilizing See My Legacy in 2025, leveraging available 2024
recreation budget funds to secure the discounted rate. This first year will provide a
foundation for the PEP and support the City Park project, while increasing community
involvement and generating cost savings for City park furnishings.
Council Action:
Consider a motion to approve proceeding with See My Legacy in 2025 at $1,529.10
from the Recreation Operating Supplies.
Attachments:
1.See My Legacy Information
2.See My Legacy Quote
3.DRAFT Park Enhancement Program
The Digital Platform that makes Community Giving
Simple and Rewarding
8c1.
The Best Platform for Community Giving
How SeeMyLegacy Works
Campaigns
Fundraisers, sponsorships,
memorial programs, and
volunteer activities that you
want community members to
participate in
Community Stories
Provide enhanced recognition
for memorial items, sponsors,
donors, and those who make
your community better
Community Profile
Your All-In-One Digital Hub for
Community Giving
Streamline How Your Community Gives Back
Campaigns
Sponsorship + Fundraisers
Examples:
Youth Team Sponsors, New Amenity Fundraisers,
Event Sponsors, Capital Project Fundraisers
Memorial Programs
Examples:
Memorial Benches, Memorial Trees,
Commemorative Bricks, Veterans Banners
Volunteer Events
Examples:
Adopt-a-Park, Planting Days, Beautification
Initiatives, Festival+Event Volunteers
Interactive Community Giving
Campaigns highlight new donation opportunities
and past contributions
Easy + Exciting Giving Experience
How Campaigns Work
Campaign Overview
Share the goals, photos, and details
Campaign Items
Easy Online Payment + Registration
Showcase New Opportunities and Past Dedications
Memorial Item Mapping
NewDedications
Let residents select a special location for their
commemorative item
MemorialStories
Explore existing memorials and learn about the
people they honor
The Entire Process Handled For You
Features of SeeMyLegacy
Online
Payments
Volunteer
Forms
Easy to Share
and Promote
Unlimited
Users
Geo-Tag
Donations
Donor
Recognition
Donor + Volunteer
Activity Log
Dedicated
Support Team
Platform Benefits
Why SeeMyLegacy
The Platform That Benefits You and Your Community Members
Create an engaging digital
experience that inspires
community members to get
involved
Create New Revenue
Streams
Offer a streamlined experience
that helps residents and
businesses give back
effortlessly
Grow the impact and success of
your existing programs by
making them more accessible
and rewarding
Enhanced Community
Engagement
Professional Digital
Experience
Increase Participation
and Donations
Generate additional funds and
resources by offering new and
creative ways for community
members to give back
Types of
Stories
$49
$89
$199
Scan QR to
View Story
Story Dedication
Story Tag
Story Board
Lasting Digital Recognition
QR Plaques
Corcoran, MN - SML Subscription
Quote created: October 24, 2024 Reference: 20241024-170205557
Corcoran, MN
8200 County Road 116
Corcoran, MN 55340
United States
Jessica Christensen Buck
jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov
+17634202288
Quote Details
12-Month SML Subscription (October Discount)
SeeMyLegacy Annual Subscription that includes all features and functionality of
the platform
1 x
after $800.00 discount $1,699.00
One-time subtotal $1,699.00
after $800.00 discount
Noblewins Discount ($169.90)
10.0% discount
Total $1,529.10
SeeMyLegacy Platform
The leading digital platform that makes community giving simple and rewarding. You can streamline
and organize your memorial programs, campaign for new sponsorships or initiatives, and celebrate
those who have given back.
$2,499.00
8c2.
Park Enhancement Program
1
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines, standards, and procedures for the installation
and care of donated park enhancements. These donations may include, but are not limited to, park
benches, bicycle racks, picnic tables, drinking fountains, flags, and other types of park elements.
The City desires to encourage donations while managing aesthetic impacts, mitigating on-going
maintenance costs, and ensuring compatibility with the Park Standards and Comprehensive Plan.
Objectives
•Encourage s a community culture that values preserving memories through park
enhancements.
•Facilitates park enhancement donation to heighten public enjoyment of the park system.
•Ensures the long-term sustainability of the program by establishing guidelines for
placement, maintenance, and upkeep of the park enhancement.
Authorization
The Parks and Trails Commission shall be responsible for recommending locations and plaque
language to the City Council for final approval. The City Council may accept, reject, or request
changes to the language of the location and/or plaque language.
Guidelines
General
•All donations must be made in full and undergo the approval process before ordering and
installing of the enhancement.
•Due to cost and staff time limitations, the City may require multiple requests for
enhancements and/or appropriate weather conditions before ordering and installation.
Installation will occur within 1 year of approval by City Council.
•Upon installation, enhancements become the property of the City of Corcoran.
•Minnesota Statute requires all donations to be officially accepted by the City Council.
Location
•Location of enhancements will be determined through staff, Parks and Trails Commission,
and City Council review.
•Enhancements shall not detract from, or overpower, the scenic or architectural values of
the existing environment.
•To accept donation of a park element for a specific park facility, a park plan must exist
showing the available locations for park elements.
•Interested parties may submit location requests not shown, however, Tthe City may limit
the number of memorials enhancements at a particular location.
Plaques
Plaque inscriptions will be limited to a predetermined character count and will be appropriately
sized to the donated enhancement, if applicable. Additionally, plaques must be approved to ensure
respectful messaging. The following will not be considered:
•Offensive language or profanity
•Political or religious propaganda
•Promotion of commercial products or services
•Hate speech or discriminatory messages
8c3.
Park Enhancement Program
2
•Example of plaque language: “In memory of Firstname Lastname and their love of the
parks”
Maintenance and Responsibility
•The lifecycle of these enhancements is considered to be 10 years, unless otherwise noted.
•As to not impact resources available for maintenance of other facilities, there is a 10%
maintenance donation, based on the value of the enhancement, to cover anticipated on-
going maintenance during the life expectancy of the donation.
•The City reserves the right to remove the donated item when it has exceeded its expected
life cycle.
•The City of Corcoran will be responsible for routine maintenance of the enhancements,
including minor repairs.
•The City of Corcoran accepts no liability for damage to donations from vandals, third
parties, or acts of nature.
•In the event of major damage, the enhancement becomes unusable, or the lifecycle of the
enhancement has expired, the City will attempt to contact the donor, in writing, to discuss
replacement options. The donor will have 30 days to respond regarding their interest in
replacement options.
Park Enhancement Options
Bench
MORE INFO TO COME – EXAMPLE AND PRICING
To include cost of concrete pad & installation
Bike Rack
MORE INFO TO COME – EXAMPLE AND PRICING
To include cost of concrete pad & installation
Waste Receptacles
MORE INFO TO COME – EXAMPLE AND PRICING
Bricks
MORE INFO TO COME – EXAMPLES AND PRICING
Process
1.Submission of Form
The donor submits a completed Park Enhancement Donation Form to Corcoran Parks and
Recreation.
2.Staff Review of Submission
Staff will review the application for completion, location, and plaque language. Staff will notify the
donor within 15 business days regarding the agenda item being included at an upcoming Parks and
Trails Commission meeting.
3. Parks and Trails Commission Review
Park Enhancement Program
3
The Parks and Trails Commission will review the location(s) and plaque language, then make a
recommendation on the proposed donation to the Corcoran City Council.
4.City Council Review
City Council will make the final decision using input and recommendation from staff and the Parks
and Trails Commission.
Park Enhancement Program
4
FORM FOR PARK ENHANCEMENT
PROGRAM
Page 1 of 3
Agenda Item 9a.
MEMO
Meeting Date: November 21, 2024
To: Parks and Trails Commission
From: Dwight Klingbeil
Re: Planning Project Update
Projects/comments in blue italics are new.
The following is a status summary of active planning projects:
1.Kwik Trip CUP, Lot Line Adjustment, and Site Plan (PID 12-119-23-14-0006; 12-119-
23-14- 0004) (City File 23-006)
Kwik Trip Inc. submitted a Site Plan, Lot Line Adjustment and CUP application for the
two parcels north of Mama G’s in early 2023. A feasibility study was required to
evaluate the infrastructure needs of the project. The feasibility study has been
distributed to the applicant. Staff and the applicant team continue to work through
requirements for the application to move forward. Additional application materials were
submitted to the City for a preliminary plat, final plat, variance, conditional use permit
and site plan. The application is being reviewed for completeness and is not currently
scheduled for any upcoming meetings.
2.Commercial and Industrial Development Standards (Citywide) (City File 23-023)
The purpose of this zoning ordinance amendment is to address and evaluate the
allowed uses and use specific standards within commercial and industrial
developments. The Council adopted a work plan at the November 20, 2023, regular
meeting, and requested the Planning Commission to provide their initial feedback. The
Planning Commission discussed this item at the December 5, 2023, meeting and
expressed their desire Commercial and Industrial Development Standards address a
number of items such as: specific architectural standards, infrastructure investment
incentives, encouragement toward sustainable development practices, proper
transitions of intensities and height, the permitted and conditional uses of each zoning
type, verbiage, and lighting standards.
City Staff prepared a survey for current landowners and lessees to express their
Page 2 of 3
opinions on items addressed with this update. Staff mailed the online survey invitation
to property owners and tenants whose property is either currently zoned, or guided for
Commercial, Industrial, or Mixed-Use. The comment period for this survey closed on
January 31, 2024.
During the February 8, 2024, City Council meeting, Council directed staff to prioritize
Rural Commercial (CR) and Transitional Rural Commercial (TCR) district updates for
approval by the end of quarter 2. Staff presented feedback from the Planning
Commission and results from the Business Community Survey to the City Council at
the April 25, 2024, regular Council meeting for further direction. The City Council and
Planning Commission discussed the Commercial and Industrial standards during the
May 21, 2024, Joint Work Session.
A survey invitation for feedback on Rural Commercial Subdivisions was posted to the
City’s media pages and mailed out to properties within 500 feet of CR & TCR parcels.
Council discussed the results of this survey during the June 27, 2024, meeting.
A public hearing for an ordinance amendment removing self-storage/mini-storage from
the CR and I-1 districts was held at the July 2, 2024, Planning Commission meeting.
After some discussion, the Planning Commission motioned to recommend approval of
this ordinance amendment. Council approved the zoning ordinance amendment,
removing self-storage/mini-storage from the CR & I-1 districts at the July 25, 2024,
meeting.
A public hearing to clarify the use of development rights for subdivision in the UR, RR,
CR, and TCR districts was held at the August 1, 2024, Planning Commission meeting.
The Planning Commission motioned unanimously to recommend approval of the draft
ordinance. Council approved the Zoning Ordinance Amendment at the August 22,
2024, meeting.
3. 3019 Addition Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning, and Preliminary
Plat (PID 07-119-23-14-0003) (City File 23-027)
Craig Scherber & Associates LLC applied for a Preliminary Plat, Rezoning, and
Comprehensive Plan Amendment for a Rural Residential and Rural Commercial
Development on the property at PID 07-119-23-14-0003. The application includes 15
commercial lots and 4 single-family residential lots. The applicant received Council
feedback on a concept version of this proposal at the February 8, 2024, meeting. A
feasibility study has been completed to evaluate the infrastructure needs of the project.
The public hearing for this item was held at the October 3, 2024, Planning
Commission meeting. After some discussion, the Planning Commission voted to
recommend denial of the application. Council denied this application at the October
24, 2024, City Council meeting.
4. Pioneer Trail Industrial Park Final Plat & Final PUD (PID 32-119-23-43-0005, 32-
119-23-43-0006, 32-119-23-43-0013)(City File 23-030).
Contour Development LLC applied for a Final Plat and a Final PUD at 6210 Pioneer
Trail. The application consists of 0 lots and 3 outlots. Additional materials were
submitted by the applicant and is being reviewed for completeness. This item is not
currently scheduled for any upcoming meetings.
5. Tonka Auto CUP (PID 26-119-23-12-0004) (City File 24-008).
Jake Hautman submitted a Conditional Use Permit application to allow the operation of
an auto repair business, Tonka Auto, at 20201 County Road 50. The application is
complete for city review and is scheduled for the November 7, 2024, Planning
Commission meeting.
6. Corcoran Industrial Northeast (PID 01-119-23-11-0001) (City File 24-010).
Page 3 of 3
Hemple Real Estate is seeking Council feedback on conceptual light industrial
development at 10585 County Road 101. The plan includes 2 primary industrial
buildings ranging from 200,200 to 342,000 sq ft on a 78.85-acre site. The applicant
received informal feedback from the Council during the March 28, 2024, Council
meeting. An Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) must be completed should
the applicant decide to proceed with this development.
7. Heitke Minor Subdivision (PID 28-119-23-33-0001 & 28-119-23-34-0001)(City File 24-013).
Dan Heitke submitted application materials for a lot line adjustment which would allow
his property at 7000 Rolling Hills Road to annex roughly 1.16 acres from Outlot A of
Heitke Farm. This request also includes a vacation of an existing drainage & utility
easement on the existing perimeter of Outlot A. This item was approved by the City
Council during the October 24, 2024, Council meeting.
8. Camp Solberg (PID 08-119-23-31-0004) (City File 24-021).
Aaron and Melissa Solberg submitted an application for a preliminary and final plat to
create two single-family residential lots on Outlot B of Weinand Woods located at PID
08-119-23-31-0004. This item is incomplete for city review and is not currently
scheduled for any upcoming meetings.
9. Kariniemi Orchards Preliminary Plat (PID 11-119-23-11-0012) (City File 24-024).
Nathan Kariniemi submitted an application for a preliminary open space & preservation
plat to allow for the development of 16 single-family lots at 20400 County Road 30. The
applicant submitted additional materials and is under review for completeness. This
item is not currently scheduled for any upcoming meetings.
10. Old Farm Ridge (PID 36-119-23-33-0008) (City File 24-034).
Michael Kelly submitted an application for a preliminary plat, final plat, conditional use
permit, and variance to plat a single lot from Outlot A of Country Season Estates,
located at 6620 County Road 116. The application is under review for completeness
and has not been scheduled for any upcoming meetings.
11. Chastek Concept 2 (PID 25-119-23-12-0002) (City File 24-035).
Trek Real Estate and Hemple Real Estate submitted a concept plan for a 103-unit
single-family development on the Chastek Farm property. The Council provided
informal feedback during the October 24, 2024 Council meeting.
12. Arens Norling OS&P Concept Plan (PID 31-119-23-12-0007) (City File 24-037).
Robb Norling submitted a concept plan for an open space and preservation (OS&P)
plat that would consist of 8 single-family lots and 1 outlot at 6700 Pioneer Trail. The
application is being reviewed for completeness and has not been scheduled for any
upcoming meetings.
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
MEMO
Meeting Date: November 21, 2024
To: Parks and Trails Commission
From: Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
Re: Parks, Recreation, and Trails Update
______________________________________________________________________
Summary
Park Planning: Creation of City Park engagement survey, City Park meetings with
consultants, exploring funding opportunities, and federal funding meetings/tasks.
Policy Updates: Continued work with the Community Development and Police
Departments to update the special events processes, to include signage.
Parks and Trails Commission: Prepared materials for the packet, completed minutes
from the October meeting, and compiled packets for physical and electronic delivery.
Holiday Toy and Food Drive: Ran an ornament contest, contacted county and fire
departments, contacted staff and council, opened neighborhood participation form,
contacted community organizations
Other: Renewed Nursery Stock Dealer Certificate from Minnesota Department of
Agriculture, wrote Parks and Recreation related newsletter articles, attended
development review committee meetings, and met with Three Rivers Park District.
City Council Items:
October 24, 2024, City Council Meeting
4a. Ken Guenthner – Watershed Commissioner and
6i. Resolution 2024-114 Honoring Watershed Commissioner Ken Guenthner
•Ken was recognized with Resolution 2024-114 for his distinguished service to the City of
Corcoran. (5:0)
8c. City Park Remaster
9b.
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
•Approved the schematic diagram specific edits and approve to proceed with design
development and construction documents and include clarification of a budget that
includes the full scope of our obligations. (4:1)
November 14, 2024, City Council Meeting
8a. Community Development Department Brief and 2025 Budget
•An overview of the department and budget, including the Recreation budget.
10a. Watershed Commission Vacancies – Commissioner and Deputy
•The City is looking for a Commissioner and Alternate Commissioner for the Elm Creek
Watershed.
Attachments
None
AGENDA ITEM 10b.
June 15, 2024
Date Park Dedication
Memorial Park
Maintenance
Combined Fund
Balance
415-10100 415-10102
01/23 Stantec Invoice 2044165 - Park Planning (118.00)
03/23 Lennar Tavera 4th Addition Park Dedication Fee 140,605.36
04/23 Lennar Tavera 5th Addition Park Dedication Fee 120,328.00
04/23 Pulte Homes Walcott Glenn Park Dedication Fee 470,617.00
03/23 Interest 0.28
06/23 Interest 0.29
07/23 Grove Nursery - Memorial Garden Plants (482.90)
08/23 Grove Nursery - Top Soil (14.60)
08/23 Transfer between bank accounts 497.50
10/23 Rush Creek Reserve 3 104,842.17
10/23 Memorial Garden (242.65)
06/23 Interest (01/2023-06/2023)63,196.04
12/23 Interest (07/2023-12/2023)130,102.17
ENDING BALANCE 4,196,751.77 11,055.35 4,207,807.12
CITY OF CORCORAN
PARK CAPITAL FUND REPORT
CASH FUNDS
10b.
June 15, 2024
Date Park Dedication
Memorial Park
Maintenance
City Park
Improvement
Combined
Fund Balance
415-10100 415-10102 415-10100
06/21 NW Jaycees-City Park Improvement (Splash Pad)100,000.00
12/21 Hanover Athletic Association - Donation 45,000.00
06/23 Corcoran Athletics Association - City Park Donation 5,622.41
4,196,751.77 11,055.35 150,622.41 4,358,429.53
CITY OF CORCORAN
PARK CAPITAL FUND REPORT
CASH FUNDS
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
MEMO
Meeting Date: November 21, 2024
To: Parks and Trails Commission
From: Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
Re: June 2025 Parks and Trails Commission Meeting
______________________________________________________________________
Summary
When looking at the meeting dates for the Parks and Trails Commission for 2025, staff
noticed that the June meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 19, 2025 (Juneteenth
Holiday).
Staff is requesting that the Commission consider the alternate date of Tuesday, June
17, 2025, for the Parks and Trails Commission meeting that month. If the proposed date
is not feasible for Commissioners, staff is requesting the Commission provide
alternative dates with the understanding that Thursday evenings are unavailable due to
Planning Commission and City Council meetings.
Attachments
None
11a.