HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-04-17 Parks & Trails Agenda PacketCorcoran Parks and Trails Commission Agenda
April 17, 2025
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 – March 20, 2025, Regular Meeting*
5.Open Forum – Public Comment Opportunity
6.Presentations – None
7.Unfinished Business
8.New Business
a.Commissioner Training*
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
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 Commission Minutes
March 20, 2025 - 7:00 pm
The Corcoran Parks and Trails Commission met on March 20, 2025, at City Hall in Corcoran, MN.
Present were Commissioners Anderson, Christenson, Erzberger, Nybo (missed Roll Call), Schmidt, Strehler,
and Walsh.
Present at City Hall was Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck and Community Development Administrative
Assistant Gellman, HKGI Principal Gabrielle Grinde, and Oertel Architects Vice-President Thomas Stromsodt.
1.Call to Order/Roll Call
Chair Christenson called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
2.Pledge of Allegiance
Chair Christenson invited all in attendance to rise and join in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3.Commissioner Updates
a.Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson Election
Motion: Made by Nybo, seconded by Anderson, to appoint Phillip Christenson as Chairperson and Gary
Erzberger as Vice-Chairperson to serve on the 2025 Parks and Trails Commission.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Erzberger, Nybo, Schmidt, Strehler, and Walsh.
Abstain: Christenson
(Motion carried 6:0)
b. Seamus Walsh & Commissioner Introductions
c. Commissioner Reappointments
4.Agenda Approval
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck requested a push broom to be added to the Garden Club budget for
which a motion was needed.
Motion: Made by Christenson, seconded by Schmidt, to approve the addition of a push broom to the
Garden Club Budget.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Erzberger, Nybo, Schmidt, Strehler, and Walsh
(Motion carried 7:0)
Motion: Made by Christenson, seconded by Anderson, to approve the agenda as presented for the March
20th, 2025 Parks and Trails Commission Meeting.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Erzberger, Nybo, Schmidt, Strehler, and Walsh
(Motion carried 7:0)
2
5.Minutes
a.Minutes – February 20, 2025, Work Session and Meeting
Motion: Made by Christenson, seconded by Erzberger, to approve the February 20, 2025 Work Session
and Meeting minutes.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Erzberger, Nybo, Schmidt, Strehler, and Walsh
(Motion carried 7:0)
6.Open Forum – Public Comment Opportunity (None).
7.Presentations (None).
8.Unfinished Business
a.City Park Remaster – 90% Designs
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck, Gabrielle Grinde of HKGI, and Thomas Stromsodt of Oertel Architects
presented the 90% Design Review to the Commission.
There was some general discussion between Commissioner’s and staff regarding the need to pave the parking
lot and the potential variance needed for how small the paved parking lot would be initially.
Vice-Chair Erzberger asked if a turn lane was still required.
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck explained the traffic study that was done did not require a turn lane in
the first phase of the project.
Chair Christenson asked if the current budget was basically what City Council was willing to spend.
Staff said there would be more budget discussion further into the presentation.
Chair Christenson asked about tree removal.
Gabrielle Grinde explained there would be minimal tree removal, and it would mainly be ash trees or trees that
have died.
Vice-Chair Erzberger said that he would like there to be enough stormwater management infrastructure built
initially so that more would not have to be done at a later date.
Commissioner Walsh asked about lighting where the cross walk would be located on County Road 10.
Commissioner Anderson asked if the lighting was optional would there still be wiring and conduits installed.
Gabrielle Grinde confirmed that was correct.
Thomas Stromsodt continued the presentation with specifics regarding the building and floor plan.
Vice-Chair Erzberger asked if there was sufficient doorway access throughout the building to move equipment,
furniture, and other large items.
Thomas Stromsodt said they would look into access and that there could be potential for improvement to
ensure proper access.
Commissioner Schmidt asked if the glass doors facing the parking lot would open.
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck clarified they were previously but now are large windows that do not
3
open.
Commissioner Schmidt suggested there could be flower beds or other vegetation planted by the large glass
windows.
Vice-Chair Erzberger asked if there was an in-between option for the tractor add.
Gabrielle Grinde said depending on funding they could look at making changes.
Vice-Chair Erzberger suggested to have more Hay Bale transfer stations throughout the small children area of
the playground.
Commissioner Nybo suggested that staff show the Commission the catalog of options as the project
progresses.
The Commission had some general discussion regarding the different bridge type and including poll toppers as
well as different colors of the posts. The Commission agreed that the two bridges would allow for a loop that
was also ADA accessible.
Chair Christenson suggested the metal posts be different colors versus grey.
Gabrielle Grinde mentioned there would be another time to make final decisions on the playground design.
The Commission generally agreed that a zip line was not needed.
The Commission landed in-between Option 1 (Existing Design) and Option 2 (Barn attached to main structure).
Chair Christenson suggested that the parking lot should stay unpaved until the city was ready to pave the entire
parking lot.
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck explained that would require further conversation with the Community
Development Director.
Commissioner Anderson expressed his concern about not using bonding money to fully fund the park project.
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck explained the Commissioners could reach out to the City Council to
express their wants for the City Park Remaster.
9.New Business
a.Commissioner Training – Moved to April 17, 2025, Parks and Trails Commission Meeting
Motion: Made by Christenson, seconded by Erzberger, to table Commissioner Training to a later date.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Erzberger, Nybo, Schmidt, Strehler, and Walsh
(Motion carried 7:0)
10.Reports/Information
a.Dog Survey Summary
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck gave a summary of the Dog Survey.
b.Planning Project Update – Information Only
c.Parks, Recreation, and Trails Update
11.Subcommittee & Miscellaneous Reports
4
a.Garden Club Report
Commissioner Anderson gave a summary of updates.
b.Park Dedication Fund
Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck discussed with the Commission on improvements to the details the
Park Dedication Fund spreadsheet.
12.Other Business/Announcements (None).
13.Adjournment
Motion: Made by Anderson, seconded by Walsh, to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 pm.
Voting Aye: Anderson, Christenson, Erzberger, Nybo, Schmidt, Strehler, and Walsh
(Motion carried 7:0)
Submitted by Seth Gellman, Community Development Administrative Assistant
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
MEMO
Meeting Date:
To:
From:
Re:
April 17, 2025
Parks and Trails Commission
Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
Commissioner Training
______________________________________________________________________
Commissioner training is designed to provide commissioners with an overview of their
roles and responsibilities, the City's 2040 Comprehensive Plan, park dedication, and
how to interpret development maps. The training aims to enhance commissioners'
understanding of their advisory capacity and how their recommendations contribute to
the city's long-term vision for parks, trails, and recreational spaces. The 2040
Comprehensive Plan and slides are attached.
Attachments
8a1. Parks and Trails Commission handbook
8a2. Parks and Trails section of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
8a3. 3-20-2025 training slides
8a.
Parks and Trails Commission
Orientation Manual
April 2025
8a1.
Table of Contents
Welcome ....................................................................................................................................................... 2
Brief History of Corcoran .............................................................................................................................. 2
Parks and Trails Commission Overview ........................................................................................................ 2
Regular Meetings ...................................................................................................................................... 2
Work Sessions ........................................................................................................................................... 2
Motions ..................................................................................................................................................... 2
Open Meeting Law ........................................................................................................................................ 2
Purpose ..................................................................................................................................................... 2
Gatherings Governed by the Open Meeting Law ..................................................................................... 3
Social Gatherings....................................................................................................................................... 3
Telephone, Email, and Social Media ......................................................................................................... 3
Parks and Trails Commission Expectations of Staff .................................................................................. 4
Staff expectations of the Parks and Trails Commission ............................................................................ 5
2040 Comprehensive Plan ............................................................................................................................ 5
Park Dedication Fund .................................................................................................................................... 5
Overview ................................................................................................................................................... 5
Uses ........................................................................................................................................................... 5
City Organization and Operations ................................................................................................................. 5
Administration .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Public Safety .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Public Works ............................................................................................................................................. 7
City Facilities ................................................................................................................................................. 9
Parks .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
General Statistics .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Closing statement from Recreation Supervisor, Jessica Christensen Buck ................................................ 11
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Welcome
Congratulations on your appointment to the City of Corcoran’s Parks and Trails
Commission. The purpose of this manual is to provide you with a brief overview of your
role as Chair or Commissioner and to provide you with basic information to assist you
with your duties and the processes and procedures that run the City of Corcoran.
Brief History of Corcoran
Corcoran was first settled in 1855 and organized as a Township on May 11, 1858, when
Minnesota became the 32nd State in the Union. Corcoran was named after Patrick B.
Corcoran, the first schoolteacher, merchant, and postmaster of the town.
Corcoran was incorporated into a Village on December 4, 1948, and became a statutory
City in 1973, following the Plan A form of government which allows the City to have a
Mayor and four Councilmembers. Corcoran became a Charter City on November 7,
1994. The City Charter was amended on August 26, 2010.
Parks and Trails Commission Overview
Regular Meetings
Regular meetings of the Parks and Trails Commission are held on the third Thursday of
each month at 7:00 p.m. All regular meetings falling upon a legal holiday shall be
rescheduled by Commission action; additionally, the Commission may re-schedule
meetings that fall near a holiday or when a conflict arises among members. Meetings of
the Commission are most often held at City Hall. Meetings of the Parks and Trails
Commission at City Hall are video and audio recorded.
Work Sessions
Work sessions are public meetings intended to provide opportunities for the
Commission to study issues, gather and analyze information, and clarify problems. The
Commission may provide direction to staff; however no formal action may be taken.
Motions
A motion is a matter of parliamentary procedure. Motions generally are made orally and
may introduce ordinances and resolutions, amend them, and take any other action.
Open Meeting Law
Purpose
The open meeting law requires that meetings of public bodies must generally be open
to the public. It serves three vital purposes:
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•Prohibits actions from being taken at a secret meeting where the interested
public cannot be fully informed of the decisions of public bodies or detect
improper influences.
•Ensures the public’s right to be informed.
•Gives the public an opportunity to present its views.
Gatherings Governed by the Open Meeting Law
The open meeting law does not define the term “meeting.” The Minnesota Supreme
Court, however, has ruled that meetings are gatherings of a quorum or more members
of the governing body—or a quorum of a committee, subcommittee, board, department,
or commission thereof—at which members discuss, decide, or receive information as a
group on issues relating to the official business of that governing body. For most public
bodies, including statutory cities, a majority of its qualified members constitutes a
quorum.
The open meeting law does not generally apply in situations where less than a quorum
is involved. However, serial meetings in groups of less than a quorum that are held to
avoid the requirements of the open meeting law may be found to violate the law,
depending on the specific facts.
Social Gatherings
Social gatherings of Commissioners would not be considered a meeting subject to the
requirements of the open meeting law if there is not a quorum present; or, if a quorum is
present, if the quorum does not discuss, decide, or receive information on official city
business. The Minnesota Supreme Court has ruled that a conversation between two
Commissioners over lunch about a land-use application did not violate the open
meeting law because a quorum of the council was not present.
Telephone, Email, and Social Media
It is possible that communication through telephone calls, email, or other technology
could violate the open meeting law. The Minnesota Supreme Court has indicated that
communication through letters and telephone calls could violate the open meeting law
under certain circumstances.
The commissioner of the Department of Administration has advised that back-and-forth
email communications among a quorum of a public body that was subject to the open
meeting law in which the members commented on and provided direction about official
business violated the open meeting law.
However, the commissioner also advised that “one-way communication between the
chair and members of a public body is permissible, such as when the chair or staff
sends meeting materials via email to all board members, as long as no discussion or
decision-making ensues.”
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Commissioners should be careful about is which email account they use to receive
emails relating to city business because such emails would likely be considered
government data that is subject to a public-records request under the Minnesota
Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA). Preferably only the Commissioner should
have access to the personal email account. Using a shared account with other family
members could lead to incorrect information being communicated from the account, or
incoming information being inadvertently deleted. Also, since city emails are
government data, Commissioners may have to separate personal emails from city
emails when responding to a public-records request under the MGDPA.
What may work best is to use a free, third-party email service, such as Gmail or
Hotmail, for your city account and to avoid using that email account for any personal
email or for anything that may constitute an official record of city business since such
records must be retained in accordance with the state records retention requirements.
In 2014, the open meeting law was amended to provide that “the use of social media by
members of a public body does not violate the open meeting law as long as the social
media use is limited to exchanges with all members of the general public.” Email is not
considered a type of social media under the new law.
The open meeting law does not define the term “social media” but this term is generally
understood to mean forms of electronic communication including websites for social
networking like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram as well as blogs and microblogs like
Twitter through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, and
other content.
Parks and Trails Commission Expectations of Staff
In regard to Parks and Trails Commission interactions, the following expectations have
been established for staff:
•Don’t cause us embarrassment
•Be non-political in a partisan sense
•Help make our job easier
•Give us accurate and current data
•Leave personal bias out of reports; arguments should stand on own merits
•Provide guidance when requested
•Provide short, well-written reports
•Provide several options when suggesting possible solutions to a problem
•Present requested information in a timely manner
•Show us how to avoid known pitfalls of recurring issues
•Be accessible
•Be respectful regardless of how you feel personally
•Keep us equally informed; do not show favoritism
•Provide historical continuity where appropriate
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Staff expectations of the Parks and Trails Commission
In regard to staff interactions, the following expectations have been established for
Commissioners:
•Be fair in dealing with us; don’t automatically assume a citizen is right and staff is
wrong
•Read the material we have proposed
•Ask questions, in advance of meetings whenever possible
•Examine all the facts and make the best possible decision
•Give criticism privately when appropriate
•Give public praise when and where appropriate
•If you make a decision based upon politics, help us understand
2040 Comprehensive Plan
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan was adopted by the City Council at the November 5,
2019, meeting. The Parks and Trails Commission has an important role in implementing
the Comprehensive Plan and work to continuously achieve the goals and policies that
are listed. Work is expected to begin on the 2050 Comprehensive Plan in 2025.
Park Dedication Fund
Overview
As part of the land development process, the City of Corcoran requires all developers
(commercial, industrial, and residential) to dedicate land (or cash in lieu of land) to the
City. The City Council, at its sole discretion and upon the recommendation of the Parks
and Trails Commission, may accept or require cash in lieu of land.
Uses
The money will be restricted to the development of new parks, playgrounds, recreational
facilities, wetlands, trails, and open space areas. Upgrades to existing neighborhood
and community parkland, trails, equipment, etc. are considered allowable uses of the
Park Dedication Funds. Ongoing operations and maintenance to existing neighborhood
and community parkland, trails, equipment, etc. are not considered permitted uses of
the Park Dedication Funds.
City Organization and Operations
The City Administrator is responsible for the staffing and operations of all departments
and consultants for the City.
Administration
The Administration Department links all other operating departments and all City
employees with the City Council and Commissions. Administration Department
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responsibilities include council and commission support, information technology,
communications, elections, clerk duties, finance, and human resources.
Full-time Staff
Jay Tobin, City Administrator
Nalisha Williams, Assistant City Administrator
Deb Johnson, City Clerk
ABDO Contracted, Finance Manager
Dean Busch, IT Manager
Reed Kottke, Accountant
Ryan Ganner, Human Resources Generalist
Aaron Headrick, Communications Assistant – part time
Karen Heiden, Deputy Clerk
Part-time/Seasonal
Kathy Sidla, Accounts Payable Clerk
Community Development
The Community Development Department responsibilities include Parks and
Trails/Planning Commission support, code enforcement, economic development,
community engagement/events, park development, and recreation.
Full-time Staff
Natalie Davis McKeown, Community Development Director
Dwight Klingbeil, Planner
Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
Mike Pritchard, Construction Services Supervisor
Shawna Zuther, Permit Technician
Seth Gellman, Community Development Administrative Assistant
Part-time/Seasonal
Program Coordinator (1) – seasonal
Ice Rink Attendants (3-4) – seasonal
Public Safety
Public Safety includes police, fire, and emergency management. The Director of Public
Safety, Matt Gottschalk, oversees these operations.
The Police Department is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week covered by full-time
and part-time police officers and is regulated by the City, the State of Minnesota, and
the federal government. The City governs personnel, staffing, structure, some policies,
and some procedures. Part-time police officers carry full-time peace officer licenses to
7 | Page
cover training and leave requests for the full-time officers. The department also utilizes
volunteers through its Reserve Officer program.
Full-time Staff
Matt Gottschalk, Director of Public Safety
Ryan Burns, Deputy Director
Peter Ekenberg, Sergeant
Dan Wilcox, Sergeant
Tim Spellacy, Detective
Dani Monnens, Police Officer
Abigail Edstrom, Police Officer
Jesse Olson, Police Officer
Sam Mahr, Police Officer
Dani Monnens, Police Officer
Beau Hartneck, Police Officer
Jack Peluf, Police Officer
Josh Lawson, Police Officer/Canine Appointment
Paula Steelman, Public Safety Administrative Manager
Amy Fadden, Police Administrative Assistant
Josh Reisner, Community Service Officer
Additional Support
Part-time officers – Approximately 10
Reserve officers – Approximately 10
Corcoran contracts with three different volunteer fire services. The West Suburban Fire
District is an independent fire service that serves the southern 1/3 of the city. The
Hanover Fire Department is a municipal fire department that covers the northwestern
1/3 of the city. The Rogers Fire Department is a municipal fire department that covers
the northeastern 1/3 of the city. Fire Department staffing and apparatus are obtained
and managed by each individual agency.
Public Works
The Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining the infrastructure of the
City. This includes streets, parks, water, sanitary sewer, stormwater, facility
maintenance, fleet maintenance, construction services, and special event assistance.
The department head is Kevin Mattson, Public Works Director, who is responsible for all
the activities of the department.
Full-time Staff
Kevin Mattson, Public Works Director
Lauren Letsche, Engineering Development Superintendent
Joe Pavey, Utility Superintendent
Pat Meister, Operations Superintendent
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Brandon Heinz, Operations Manager
Mark Reinking, Crew Leader
Robbie Kottke, Maintenance Worker
Mac Alger, Maintenance Worker
Eric Gregory, Maintenance Worker
Cody Harff, Maintenance Worker
Brandon Maurer, Maintenance Worker
Kelsey Meer, Utility Billing/Administrative Assistant
Part-time/Seasonal
Summer seasonals (2)
9 | Page
City Facilities
City Hall – 8200 County Road 116
City Hall was built in 1994 and currently houses the Administration and Police
departments.
Public Works Facility – 9100 County Road 19
The Public Works facility was built in 2013 and put into service in 2014.
Old Public Works Garage – 9525 Cain Road
The old Public Works garage is at the location of an old schoolhouse that previously
was the headquarters for Public Works; before that it was the old City Hall. The old
schoolhouse was demolished in 2014, the garage however remains and is utilized for
storage.
Parks
City Park: 79.25 acres
Wildflower Park: 5.13 acres
Memorial Garden (on City Hall property)
Ravinia Open Space Park (Unnamed): 38.7 acres
Bellwether Open Space Park (Unnamed): 27.7 acres
Bellwether Neighborhood Park (Unnamed): 13.86 acres
Tavera Neighborhood Park (Unnamed): 4.24 acres
General Statistics
As found on the Metropolitan Council’s community profile for Corcoran.
Area: 36.1 square miles, 23,079 acres
Population (2022) 7,430
Households (2021): 2,647
Median household income (ACS 2018-2022): $155,400
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Population by race and ethnicity (American Community Survey 2017-2021):
Land use (Metropolitan Council Generalized Land Use Historical Data Set 2020):
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Household Type (American Community Survey 2017-2021):
Closing statement from Recreation Supervisor, Jessica Christensen Buck
Thank you for volunteering your time to the City as a member of the Parks and Trails
Commission. The quality of parks, trails, and recreational opportunities are often a
primary reason people choose to locate, remain, and invest in a community. The
experiences, feedback, and insight you contribute will help guide this community in a
positive direction and leave a long-lasting impact for generations to come. If you have
any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My contact information is
jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov or 763-400-7034.
Parks and Trails
Commission Training
April 17, 2025
8a3.
Parks and Trails
Commission
Information
COMMISSION OVERVIEW
3
PURVIEWS
4
REGULAR MEETING ITEMS
5
EXPECTATIONS
6
COLLABORATION
7
PARK DEDICATION
9
2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
10
CURRENT PARKS
16
2024 PRIORITIES
17
Commission Overview
•A recommending body to the City Council.
•Meetings
•3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm.
•Generally, at City Hall.
•Work sessions
•Study issues, gather/analyze information, and clarify problems.
•Motions
•May introduce ordinances and resolutions, amend them, and
take any other action.
•Open meeting law
•Meetings of public bodies must generally be open to the public.
•No gatherings of a quorum of Council/Commission/etc. can
occur without notice.
•Liaison
•City Councilor will serve as a liaison to the Commission
•Commissioners are not required to attend City Council
meetings
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 3
PARKS & TRAILS COMMISSION
o Review/recommendation
of:
•Parks, trails, and
recreation policies
•Total area and location of
land conveyed or
dedicated for park use
•Recommend percentage
of park dedication paid in
cash-in-lieu-of land
•Standards for design and
construction of parks,
trails, and open space
areas
PLANNING COMMISSION
o Review/recommendation
of:
•Planning related policies
•Public comments
•Adoption, amendment, or
repeal of an official map
•Development proposals
•Hearing variances
•Conditional use requests
•Land subdivision, zoning,
land use, and architectural
review
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 4
Purviews
CITY COUNCIL
o Governing body for the
City
o Adoption of resolutions
and ordinances
o Final review and
approval/denial of
development projects
REGULAR MEETING ITEMS
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 5
•Summary of previous meeting
•Motion neededMinutes
•Summary of active planning projectsActive Planning
Applications
•Summary of Recreation Supervisor’s
tasks
Parks, Trails, and
Recreation Update
•Summary of funds in Park Dedication
and Memorial Garden funds
Park Dedication
Fund
Expectations…
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 6
of staff:
•Help you navigate your role easier
•Provide short, well-written reports
•Give accurate, current, and non-biased data
•Present requested information in a timely manner
of Commissioners:
•Read the material provided
•Ask questions, in advance
of meetings, whenever
possible
•Examine all the facts and
determine the best option
•Purview-focused discussion
Three Rivers Park District
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 7
•Lake Independence Regional Trail
•County Road 19
•Diamond Lake Regional Trail
•North/south through Corcoran
•Cooperative Agreement
•Reimbursement for trails acquired
•Up to $15,000 towards City Park alignment planning
Diamond
Lake
Regional
Trail
Parks and Trails Commission Training 8
PARK DEDICATION FUND
2024 Parks and Trails Commission Training 9
•Land
•Cash-in-lieu of landDedication
•Development of new recreational areas
•Upgrades to existing recreational areas
•*Ongoing operations and maintenance
NOT eligible
Uses
2040 Comprehensive Plan
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 10
•Adopted by the City Council on November 5, 2019.
•Parks and Trails Commission should implement the plan and strive to
achieve the goals and policies listed.
•Goals
•To implement this Parks and Trails Plan based on the needs of Corcoran residents
and park system patrons.
•To cooperatively with neighboring communities, Hennepin County, and the State of
Minnesota and others in planning, developing, and financing the local park system.
•To develop a park system the public values and visits.
•To develop a system of parks and trails, with a variety of active and passive uses, that
reflect the special character of the City, its history, and natural resources.
•To provide a safe, equitable, and convenient trail network.
•Work on the 2050 Comprehensive Plan is anticipated to begin in XXXX.
2040 Comprehensive Plan
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 11
Park Classification
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 12
•Neighborhood park
•Prioritize user groups living in the neighborhood
•Overall size of 5-20 acres
•Service area of ¼-½ mile
•Physical geography suited for intense development
•A frequency of 1 neighborhood park per 5,000 residents
•Example: Wildflower Park
Park Classification
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 13
•Community Park
•Seek to preserve unique landscapes and natural areas
•Larger in overall size; 20-100 acres
•Passive and active programmed recreation may occur within the same
park without conflict
•Service area of up to a 2-mile radius
•A frequency of 1 community park per 15,000 residents
•Community playfields (Athletic Search Area – ASA)
•Open space/natural parks
•Example: City Park
Park Classification
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 14
•Local Linear Parks, Trails, Corridors, and Parkways
•1 or more varying modes of recreational travel
•Hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, etc.
•Often found adjacent to major roadways to link
recreation/community amenities
•Example: Future linear park along CR 116
Park Standards Policy
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 15
•Adopted June 13, 2024; Resolution 2024-64
•Focuses on
•Collaboration
•Connectivity
•Gathering Areas
•Landscaping and Natural Features
•Policy Development/Inclusion
•Site Amenities
•Differences in Neighborhood Parks, Open Space Parks, Community
Playfields, and Linear Parks/Trails
CITY PARK MEMORIAL GARDEN WILDFLOWER PARK
20200 County Road 50 8200 County Road 116 6604 Wildflower Trail
2025 Parks and Trails Commission Training 16
Current Parks
2025 Priorities
DIAMOND LAKE
REGIONAL TRAIL
CITY PARK REMASTER
Three Rivers Park District
County Road 10 & 50
WAYFINDING SIGNS
PARK DEVELOPMENT
Directional and monument signs
Park system planning and financing
17Parks and Trails Commission Training2025
Map Training
SECTIONS
17
MISCELLANEOUS MAP
TRAINING
18
CONTOURS
20
TREES
21
Sections
2024 Parks and Trails Commission Training 19
•Section: 1 square mile
•Quarter-Quarter: Area of
section. First number is quarter,
second number is quarter-
quarter. Each number is 1-4,
starting in the NE quarter and
moving counterclockwise.
•4-digit unique number: Unique
individual identified for each lot.
Development
2024 Parks and Trails Commission Training 20
Development
2024 Parks and Trails Commission Training 21
Contours
2024 Parks and Trails Commission Training 22
Trees
2024 Parks and Trails Commission Training 23
Questions?
Contact Information
Jessica Christensen Buck
Recreation Supervisor
jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov ; 763-400-7034
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
MEMO
Meeting Date: April 17, 2025
To: Parks and Trails Commission
From: Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
Re: Parks, Recreation, and Trails Update
______________________________________________________________________
Summary
Garden Club: The items the Garden Club requested have been purchased, and the
shed is planned to be placed by mid-May. Staff has also put up some flyers around the
City for those interested in joining Garden Club.
Park Planning: Grant applications for the DNR Outdoor Recreation Grant and the T-
Mobile Hometown Grant were submitted on March 31.
Work continued with the consultants to update the plans with Parks and Trails
Commission updates from the March 20, 2025, meeting. An informational staff report
was provided to the City Council on April 10, 2024, regarding the updates.
Special Events: Preparations for Night to Unite have begun, including use of See My
Legacy as the volunteer sign-up platform.
Step To It Challenge: Hennepin County previously hosted the website for the annual
Step To It Challenge held each May. The County has since discontinued the program,
and without access to the website they supported, the City does not have the capacity
to continue running the challenge independently.
Tree Giveaway: The online registration has closed, and individuals interested in
requesting trees should contact Recreation Supervisor Christensen Buck
(jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov). The Commission is invited to help with the tree
handout day the morning of Saturday, April 26.
Youth Athletics: Teams have been finalized, the schedule created, uniforms ordered,
and coaches contacted. 37% of those registered are Corcoran residents.
9b.
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
City Council Items:
March 27, 2025, City Council Meeting
6k. HUD Grant Agreement – City Park Improvements
•City Council approved the HUD Community Project Funding Grant Agreement and
authorized City Staff to execute the agreement and submit additional forms and
information necessary for grant approval.
April 10, 2025, City Council Meeting
At the time of this report, this meeting has not yet occurred.
6e. Grant Proposals
•Staff provided copies of the grant applications to City Council that were submitted on
Monday, March 31, 2025.
6j. City Park Remaster – Design Update
•Staff provided an informational report regarding the updates that were made to the park
plans since last seen by the City Council on February 13, 2025.
•Anticipated return to City Council as part of the April 24, 2025, meeting requesting to go
out for bid on site work and the building.
Attachments
None
Page 1 of 3
Agenda Item 10a.
MEMO
Meeting Date: April 17, 2025
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. The public hearing for this item was
held during the March 6, 2025, Planning Commission meeting. After some discussion,
the Planning Commission recommended approval of the request as presented. The
applicant requested that the application be moved from the March 27 Council meeting
to the April 24, 2025, meeting.
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.
Page 2 of 3
City Staff prepared a survey for current landowners and lessees to express their
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. 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 complete for City review and is scheduled for the
April 24, 2025, Council meeting.
4. St. Thomas the Apostle Church (PID 23-119-23-44-0015) (City File 24-045).
St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church submitted a Site Plan and Variance
application a new campus at 20020 County Road 10. This application under review for
completeness and is not currently scheduled for any upcoming meetings.
5. Brockton Business Park Preliminary Plat and Site Plan (PID 01-119-23-11-0001)
(City File 24-047).
Hemple Development LLC request approval of a preliminary plat and site plan for an
industrial development at 10585 County Road 101. The public hearing for this item
was held during the March 6, 2025, Planning Commission meeting. After some
discussion, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the request. This
item was approved by the City Council during the March 27, 2025, meeting.
6. Chastek Family Farm Preliminary Plat and Rezoning (PID 21-119-23-12-0002)
(City File 25-001).
Trek Real Estate and Development request approval of a preliminary plat and
rezoning of the Chastek Farm property located at 7600 Maple Hill Road. The
application consists of 104 65 ft-wide single-family lots on a 38.16 acre site. The public
hearing for this item was held during the March 6, 2025, Planning Commission
meeting. After some discussion, the Planning Commission recommended approval of
Page 3 of 3
the request. The applicant requested this item be moved from the March 27, 2025,
Council meeting to the April 24, 2025, Council meeting.
7. Lother Comprehensive Plan Amendment (PID 12-119-23-22-0009) (City File 25-
002).
Brian and Jaque Lother request approval of a comprehensive plan amendment to re-
guide the property at 10110 County Road 116 from Existing Residential to
Conservation Residential. The public hearing for this item was held during the March
6, 2025, Planning Commission meeting. After some discussion, the Planning
Commission recommended denial of the request, and recommended establishment of
a new land use guidance that would allow development in the MUSA at a density of
less than 2.0 units per acre. This item was reviewed by the City Council during the
March 27, 2025, meeting. After some discussion, the Council voted to approve the
applicant’s request.
8. Triden Ridge Estates 3rd Addition Preliminary & Final Plat (PID 06-119-23-11-
0008) (City File 25-004).
SAB Properties, LLC. request approval of a preliminary plat & final plat to create a 1
single-family lot and 0 outlots on Outlot A of Triden Ridge Estates 2nd Addition. The
application is incomplete for City review and is not currently scheduled for any
upcoming meetings.
9. Commercial Kennel Zoning Ordinance Amendment (Citywide) (City File 25-
005).
Maureen & Jefferey Clipperton request approval of a Zoning Ordinance Amendment to
classify Commercial Kennel operations as a permitted use within the Rural Residential
zoning district. The application is complete for City review and is scheduled for the
April 3, 2025, Planning Commission meeting.
10. Continental Concept Plan (PID 12-119-23-13-0007) (City File 25-008).
Continental Properties have submitted a concept plan for a 325 unit multi-family
community located on the western half of 19330 County Road 30. The application is
under review for completeness and is not currently scheduled for any upcoming
meetings.
11. New Mahavan Temple CUP (PID 15-119-23-32-0006) (City File 25-009).
New Mahavan Temple and Eco Farm Community request approval of a conditional
use permit and site plan to allow the operation of a place of worship at 8750 Trail
Haven Road. The application is complete for City review and is scheduled for the May
1, 2025, Planning Commission meeting.
12. Fairway Shores Final Plat (PID 25-119-23-11-0001) (City File 25-010).
Bergeron Homes request approval of the final plat for the first phase of Fairway
Shores at Cook Lake, which consists of 24 single-family homes. This application is
incomplete for City review and is not currently scheduled for City meetings.
13. Kariniemi Acres 2nd Addition (PID 33-119-23-21-0002) (City File 25-011).
Mike Kariniemi submitted an application for an application for a preliminary plat, final
plat and variance to realign the shared property line between 6855 Willow Drive and
6840 Rolling Hills Road. The application is complete for City review and is scheduled
for the May 1, 2025, Planning Commission meeting.
8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340
763-420-2288 www.corcoranmn.gov
MEMO
Meeting Date: April 17, 2025
To: Parks and Trails Commission
From: Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor
Re: Park Dedication Fund
______________________________________________________________________
Staff intended to provide a copy of the Park Dedication Fund report in advance of the
upcoming Parks and Trails Commission meeting. However, due to current scheduling
demands, the document is not yet ready for distribution. Additional formatting and
content adjustments are still in progress.
Staff will continue working on the report in the days leading up to the meeting and will
provide any available updates during the Commission meeting.
Attachments
None
10b.