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05-12-92 PRMay 8, 1992 To,the Otsego Park and Recreation Commission: This is a draft copy of our Comprehensive Park Plan. It is important that you study it critically before our meeting on Tuesday, May 12, as after our property tour we will need to discuss this. Please come prepared with comments, suggestions and criticisms. After changes are made, I will do a layout in Times/Roman with sans -serif headings. The final copy should come out to fewer pages. F Thanks, r+ l • e Jacq ie Rognli 44 7239 April 15, 1992 Mark Wallace & Floyd Roden, After evaluating what we have so far for our comprehensive park plan, I made the following notes which I would appreciate your comments on. They are listed in the format of the outline provided by Mark. I would like to make this comprehensive plan easy for the general public to read and understand. I think that these suggestions will add some order and clarification. I am anxious to hear from you on this soon. Thanks, a ie Rognli 44 7239 Copies to Dalene Solberg, Rick Savitski, Andy Beecher, Tom Constant, Carl Swenson I. Introduction Separate existing and proposed facilities from the introduction into a section called "Inventory." I failed to include the two Mississippi River public accesses in the inventory, 4nd will add that to my next draft. II. Community Goals This may be more accurately labeled "Community Goals and Needs." Besides the survey results, I think we need to include the general needs comments that we have been hearing from our Park Commission members. This will add some direction that is specific to Otsego. I have attached a list of some of the things that I recalled, but I would like to hear if you have any more ideas. III. Park Classifications and Standards These are actually only classifications. I dQn't think we're ready to set standards. IV. Parks and V. Trails Rather than separate entries for parks and trails, I think that we could easily combine these sections. These are broad general policies that apply to both parks and trails. Also, as Mark pointed out, acquisition and maintenance are almost identical for both. Should we include development policies? It would be more clear to label this "General Policies," leaving out "goals." This section should probably be preceded by a short introduction saying these are broad policy statements of ideology that are common among park and recreation decision makers. I can write that introductory paragraph. VI. Community Recreation Call this "General Recreation Policies." Mark is compiling these as we discussed Tuesday. VII. Public Relations I'm working on this as we discussed Tuesday. VII. Plan Call the districts "Park Planning Districts." After thinking about the map more, I started to question why there was a need to draw the line between districts 8 and 9. There is no real physical barrier between them. I realize that the distance was probably a factor. However, right now we are only stating that our goal is for a park in each district. We did not set a minimum travel distance as a goal. At this point in Otsego's development, I think that Districts 8 and 9 could be combined. In future plans we may wish to set standards based on distance and/or population densities. This section also needs an introductory paragraph which I would be happy to write. To summarize, my proposed revisions would change our outline to look like: Table of Contents I. Introduction II. Inventory A. Existing Facilities B. Proposed Facilities III. Community Goals and Needs A. Needs Analysis B. Recreation Survey IV. Policies A. General Parks and Trails Policies B. General Acquisition Policies ? C. General Development Policies ? C. General Maintenance Policies D. General Recreation Policies V. Public Relations VI. Plans A. Park Planning Districts B. Trail System The activity profile of in-state outdoor recreation time by Minnesotans shows that bicycling, swimming, skating, baseball/softball, and sledding are the top five outdoor activities for 5 to 14 year old children. Fishing, hunting, boating, camping, and bicycling are the top five outdoor recreation activities for age 35 to 44. Fishing (summer and winter), picnicking, hunting, boating, and camping are the most participated in activities for age 65 and older. City of Otsego PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Comprehensive Plan Table of Contents I. Introduction A. Purpose B. Process II. Inventory A. City Characteristics B. Existing Facilities (map) C. Proposed Facilities (map) III. Park Classifications IV. Community Goals and Needs A. Introduction B. Needs Analysis C. Data Considered 1. Otsego Recreation Survey 2. State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan 3. Governor's Commission on Minnesotans Outdoors V. General Policies A. General Parks and Trails Policies B. General Aquisition Policies C. General Development Policies D. General Maintenance Policies E. General Recreation Program Policies F. General Public Relations Policies VI. Plans A. Park Planning Districts (map) B. Trail System (map) C. Recreation X��/ /7 11-2—� I. INTRODUCTION Purpose The general intent of this Comprehensive Park, Trails and Recreation Plan for the city of Otsego is to provide an analysis and subsequent decision making framework to guide city officials in providing community services and facilities as well as addressing private development proposals. It includes definitions, goals, and policies. This plan will likely need revisions when the basic planning assumptions, definitions, and goals are no longer considered valid, or when the city's population and recreational demands warrant amendment. Revision should be considered within the next five to ten years to keep the plan current with community philosophy and user characteristics. Process A Parks and Recreation Commission was formed in 1991 to look at specific park and recreational needs of Otsego and allow a more detailed analysis of this aspect of the community. The Parks and Recreation Commission has developed this Plan using the preliminary Park and Trail System Plan included in the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Otsego, information contained in the Otsego Township Planning Inventory, data on state outdoor recreation provided by the Department of Natural Resources, and a recreation survey of residents conducted by the Commission in 1992. A preliminary Comprehensive Park and Trail System Plan was developed as part of the city's Comprehensive Plan which was adopted in 1991. While considered preliminary, that park plan was intended to address Otsego's park needs and identify plan components that could be programed for development when opportunities were presented. (Within this introduction should also be a description of the hearing and evaluation process that is still to take place. I think there should also be an acknowledgement page listing the commission, staff and council who have worked on this plan.) II. INVENTORY A. City Characteristics Otsego has an open rural feeling, created by agricultural land use and large single family lots. The majority of the over 5,000 residents live in the northeast section of the city. This urban area of the city is characterized by large (one acre or more) suburban lots. The western part of Otsego is agricultural, covering 70 to 80 percent of city's land area. The Mississippi River runs along the north and east sides of the city, providing a wooded corridor of wildlife habitat. B. Existing Facilities Parks Otsego County Park and Recreational Facility is currently the only park within the city. It covers roughly 30 acres and is located off the Great River Road (Wright County Road 39), one mile south of Elk River, in the urban area of the city. The park is adjacent to the Mississippi River and includes amenities such as picnic areas with shelters, limestone trails, a play field, horseshoe pits, a tot lot, toilets, canoe access, and a prairie restoration project. Otsego County Park is slated for expansion by 1993, with acquisition of 55 additional acres to the west of the existing park. The expansion plan will include extension of the existing trail system and the park's prairie restoration project. Public Accesses There are public accesses to the Mississippi River located at the northern end of Kadler and Nashua Avenues. The city owns the road, but no surrounding land. Boats can be launched, but there is little room to park and no facilities are provided. A carry -in access to the Mississippi River exists in the Otsego County Park. Open Space Wildlife management areas are located around Rice Lake and near 67th Street and Odell. These areas are owned by the Sate of Minnesota and managed by the Department of Natural Resources. Trails A paved shoulder marked as a bicycle route follows Wright C41 1 County Road 42 between Dayton and State Highway 101. A sidewalk exists on the west side of Parrish Avenue, running for a half mile south of the Mississippi. Waterways The Mississippi River borders Otsego on the north and east. This section of the river is part of a canoe route designated by the Department of Natural Resources. Historical Sites The city owns a cemetery dating from the 1850's and a portion of the original town site that includes the current city hall and the home of Wright County's first white settler. Recreation Otsego has been dependent on Wright County and the school districts that serve the city to provide recreation programs. A Community Recreation Coordinator was hired in March 1992 jointly by the Elk River Area School District and participating neighboring communities. Otsego has entered into this joint powers agreement, funding a portion of the cost and has a representative on the governing board. The Otsego City Council has stated that they would participate in similar programs with the other school districts serving the city if they become available. The city of Monticello and Monticello School District 882 have initiated an investigation into such a program. Community Festivals Otsego holds an annual Great River Road Fest in August. C. Proposed Facilities The Elk River/Rogers VFW plans to develop their property located at 72nd Street and Quaday Avenue into soccer fields. While privately owned, it would increase recreational choices available to residents. A school is slated to be built in Otsego by the Elk River District in 1994. In 1992, the city purchased over 73 acres of land west of Nashua Avenue, north of 85th Street, for construction of a new city hall. The property includes open field, wet area, and wooded section. The city owns a three-quarter acre lot located at the southwest corner of County Road 39 and old Nashua Avenue. It is wooded and Otsego Creek runs through it. The old Nashua Avenue will cul de sac at the property. III. Otsego Community Goals and Needs These are rough, not formatted and not ranked, but I would like to get some feedback from you on this. Of course an introductory paragraph would be needed for this section. A. Needs Analysis Safe bicycle and pedestrian routes. A facility adequate to hold the Otsego Great River Road Fest and other large community gatherings. The Mississippi River is considered a major asset to the community that deserves some attention. Improved river access. Addressing the needs of youth in the urban area of the city is important because that area of Otsego is currently populated by a large percentage of younger families. Try to develop park facilities in the urban areas first. Although Otsego County Park fills the needs of the population in terms of acreage and there is a lot of perceived open land because of the large residential lots, there is still a need for more localized park and recreation facilities. Development of parks should keep in mind the urban/rural area concept of Otsego's Comprehensive Plan. There is a concern to not wait too long to acquire park land before development infills the available properties. The Great River Road traverses the city. This is an asset that should be kept in mind. Conflicts between snowmobiles and property owners is a concern that needs to be addressed. A park development could be a unifying community project, utilizing volunteer labor and donated materials. The city lacks active recreational facilities, relying on neighboring communities for playfields. Playfields in surrounding communities do not adequately fill the need. A strong effort should be made to preserve trees as the city contains very little wooded area. Plan trails to connect activity centers such as local parks, the school, VFW complex, the Otsego County Park, City Hall, commercial areas. Make use of the paved shoulder on County Road 39 for a bike trail. Use parks and historical sites to promote community identity. Resident volunteers are working to establish a snowmobile trail in the western part of the city that would connect with the Wright County snowmobile trail system. The Wright County Park Commission has recently expressed their intention of establishing a county -wide trail system. c. III. PARK CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM Otsego's park classification system is based on the Metropolitan Council's Development Framework Park Classification System. The three general categories are: local parks, trails, and regional parks. Local Parks Mini -Parks are smaller parks designed for informal and limited recreational use. Their small size may allow for play equipment, a small ballfield, trails, and a pleasure skating rink. Mini -parks may be developed near high density residential locations such as apartment complexes, town houses, or senior citizen housing. They should be limited to residential neighborhoods where a neighborhood park can not be provided for in the future because of physical limitations or other constraints. Neighborhood Parks are areas designed for intense recreational activities. They may include gamefields, play equipment, multiple use hard surface play courts, hockey rinks, pleasure skating rinks, warming houses, landscape plantings, picnic areas, shelters, rest rooms, and parking lots. These sites are usually 10 to 25 acres of developable recreation area. They should have safe pedestrian and bicycle access, as they are designed to serve a one-half mile to one mile radius. Community Playfields are programed for intensive recreational use and designed to serve several neighborhoods. As primarily an athletic complex, a community playfield provides several regulation gamefields, basketball courts, tennis courts, hockey and pleasure skating rinks, large parking lots, shelter buildings, and game lighting as needed. They are usually 25 to 50 acres. Community Parks offer diverse features and capabilities and appeal to the population of the entire community. They are at least 25 to 100 acres of land which provide active and passive recreation based on natural site amenities such as lakes, rivers, creeks, and woods. They are often driven to, so they require parking improvements. They may or may not have shelters and utility services. Active recreation facilities provided could include those listed in neighborhood parks. Passive recreation facilities may be provided based on the natural assets of the site. These could include trails, picnic areas, nature interpretative sites, fishing, and landscape plantings. A community park should be sized and developed to accommodate 3.1 large crowds and peak events such as community festivals and holidays. Special Use Parks are for a specific purpose such as boat access, wayside rest area, fishing dock, swimming pool, arena, golf course, arboretum, nature center, gun club, swimming pool, or historic site. They are intended to serve the entire community. Conservancy Parks are open space areas preserving the integrity of environmental sensitive areas such as wetlands, wildlife preserves, forests, lakes, streams, and prairies. Limited passive recreation activities can be allowed in conservancy areas, such as hiking and biking trails, picnicking, and wildlife observation, as long as they are compatible with the intent of the park. Active recreational uses are restricted in conservancy parks. Trails Trails are linear parks intended to provide a transportation corridor from one place to another. They are developed for varying modes of recreational travel such as hiking, biking, snowmobiling, horseback riding, crosscountry skiing, canoeing, and driving. Trails can utilize human -made and natural linear resources such as utility corridors, right of ways, drainageways, bluff lines, vegetation patterns, rivers, streams, and roads. They may link components of the recreation system or other community facilities such as schools, libraries, and commercial areas. Regional Parks The Wright County Park Commission has the responsibility for the planning, development and operation of regional park and recreation facilities in Otsego. The Otsego County Park and Recreation Facility is the only regional park within the city of Otsego. 3,,2__ IV. COMMUNITY GOALS AND NEEDS A. Introduction The Otsego Parks and Recreation Commission has identified a list of concerns for parks, trails and recreation in the city. The Commission looked at the city's Comprehensive Plan, park and recreation plans for the cities of Lakeville, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, Ramsey, and Hassan Township. They compared park surveys done for Wright County, Eagan. Maple Grove, and Hassan, data on state outdoor recreation provided by the Department of Natural Resources, and a recreation survey of residents conducted by the Commission in 1992. Many of the concerns expressed by the Otsego Parks and Recreation Commission were general in nature and similar to those addressed in the General Policies section of this document. However, the following list addresses needs specific to Otsego. These needs should be considered when planning facilities. B. Needs Analvsis Although Otsego County Park fills the needs of the population in terms of acreage and there is a lot of perceived open land because of the large residential lots, the city lacks localized park and recreation facilities. Development of parks should keep in mind the urban/rural area concept of Otsego's Comprehensive Plan. There is a concern to not wait too long to acquire park land before development infills the available properties. The Mississippi River is a major asset to the community that deserves some attention. River access needs improvement. The city lacks active recreational facilities, relying on neighboring communities for playfields. However, playfields in surrounding communities do not adequately fill the need. The Elk River District 728 school proposed to be built in 1993 is seen as an opportunity to cooperate in the development of a playfield facility. Addressing the needs of youth in the urban area of the city is important because that area of Otsego is currently populated by a large percentage of younger families. An effort should be made to develop park facilities in the �, I urban areas of the city first. Safe bicycle and pedestrian routes are needed. Trails should be planned to connect activity centers such as local parks, the school, proposed VFW complex, the Otsego County Park, City Hall, and commercial areas. A strong effort should be made to preserve trees as the city contains very little wooded area. A facility adequate to hold the Otsego Great River Road Fest and other large community gatherings is needed. The Great River Road, a national scenic route, traverses the city. This is an asset that should be kept in mind when planning facilities. The paved shoulder on County Road 39 should be utilized for a bike trail. Conflicts between snowmobiles and property owners is a concern that needs to be addressed. Parks and historical sites could be a tool to promote community identity. Development of a park or trail could be a unifying community project, utilizing volunteer labor and donated materials. C. Data Considered Recreation Survey In the first quarter of 1992, a survey was taken on a sample of residents in the city of Otsego. This survey was used as an indication of the present activities that residents participate in locally and the types of activities and facilities that would be preferred in Otsego. Park and Recreation Commission members executed a random telephone survey of residents from January 21 to February 9, 1992. The results are based on 81 completed surveys which represents about five percent of Otsego's population. Residents were asked if any people in their household participated in the outdoor recreation activities read from a list of 23 typical activities. They were then asked to name any activities they would like to see offered in Otsego and given an opportunity to make suggestions or comments to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Otsego survey results were comparable to others done in Minnesota in that the most popular activities are similar. Walking, fishing, picnicking, boating, and bicycling were the top five activities participated in by the polled Otsego residents. The top five activities those polled would like to see offered locally were bicycling, walking, cross-country skiing, swimming pool, and neighborhood playgrounds. Present Outdoor Recreation Activities Participated in by Otsego Residents Usacte Walking 84% Fishing 82% Picnicing 78% Boating 70% Bicycling 69% Lake/River Swimming 64% Wildlife Observation 64% Pool Swimming 63% Camping 56% Neighborhood Playgrounds 48% Softball 44% Hiking 37% Ice Skating 36% Golf 36% Snowmobiling 33% Cross-country Skiing 26% Archery 26% Running 24% Canoeing 22% Tennis 19% Little League Ball 19% Horseback Riding 9% Hockey 8% Outdoor Recreation Activities Residents would Like to See Offered in Otsego Rank Bicycling 1 Walking 2 Cross -Country Skiing 3 Swimming Pool 4 Neighborhood Playgrounds 5 Softball 6 Wildlife Observation 7 Picnicking 8 Snowmobiling 9 Fishing 10 Golf 11 Ice Skating 12 Little League Baseball 13 4.3 Tennis 14 Hiking 15 Boating 16 Hockey 17 Horseback Riding 18 Lake/River Swimming 19 Archery 20 Camping 21 Running 22 Canoeing 23 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan The State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) produced by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) affords a general indication of people's demand for outdoor recreational facilities on a statewide scale. The SCORP study uses information on levels of participation and public opinion to measure public demand for facilities. The DNR found that preferences for outdoor recreational activities did not vary significantly throughout the state. Results were similar for rural Minnesotans and metropolitan residents. According to the 1985 data, Minnesotans' top five summer outdoor recreation activities ranked by hours per capita are walking/hiking, biking, fishing, driving and swimming. The highest winter participation activities are skating, snowmobiling, sledding, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. Snowmobiling is forecast to experience the greatest increase in participation by 2000. The SCORP study shows that the top five facilities people rank as most important statewide are natural park areas, wildlife and nature observation, walking paths, picnic grounds, and nature and history interpretation. Governor's Commission on Minnesotans Outdoors The Otsego Park and Recreation Commission looked at 1990 census information for the city of Otsego and data provided by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that related recreation participation with age and gender. Otsego's population is younger than the rest of Wright County with 35.1 percent of the population under 18 years old and only 4.5 percent 65 year old and over. The DNR information studied was part of a series of briefing papers done in the mid 1980's for the Governor's Commission on Minnesotans Outdoors, which was the Minnesota parallel to the President's Commission on Americans Outdoors. The activity profile of in-state outdoor recreation time by Minnesotans shows that bicycling, swimming, skating, baseball/softball, and sledding are the top five outdoor activities for 5 to 14 year old children. Fishing, hunting, boating, camping, and bicycling are the top five outdoor recreation activities for age 35 to 44. Fishing (summer and winter), picnicking, hunting, boating, and camping are the most participated in activities for age 65 and older. V. GENERAL POLICIES These are broad policy statements of ideology common among park and recreation decision makers. A. Policies and Goals for Parks and Trails 1. Create and maintain a system of recreation facilities that provides for the future needs at the neighborhood and community -wide levels. 2. Provide social community and recreation facilities designed to satisfy the needs of all age groups within the community. 3. Provide safe, accessible and organized trail facilities for pedestrian, bicycle and cross-country ski movement through the city in both urban and rural areas. 4. Provide a park, trail and recreation system for the handicapped to enjoy and easily participate in. 5. Work with local schools and community-based organizations in coordinating the used of shared facilities to minimize costs and at the same time utilize more resources. 6. Promote and encourage citizen involvement in park, trail and recreation development plans. 7. Provide quality parks, trails and recreation activities that meet the needs of the urban and rural residents. 8. Preserve and protect the natural environment of the community with special attention given to the Mississippi River for the present and future benefit of the community. 9. Provide encouragement in preservation of the River through local, state and federal agencies. B. Parks and Trails Acquisition Policies 1. Accept land and/or cash park dedication fees as stated in the city code. 2. Accept land and/or cash trail dedication fees as stated in the city code. 3. Review and submit recommendations to the City Council on all park and trail land acquisition issues. 4. Acquire and develop ample park and trail land to meet the present and projected future population needs. S. I 5. Accept gifts and donations for park, trail and recreation land to meet the present and future needs identified in this comprehensive plan. 6. Acquisition of high amenity landscape will be a priority in park system development. Such landscapes could include lake frontage, forests, native prairie, other unique vegetational associations, or areas of rugged topography with quality views and vistas. 7. Pursue and develop joint use agreements between the city of Otsego and other government entities when appropriate. C. General Development Policies 1. Provide a safe, functional and attractive park system designed to offer a wide variety of facilities and programs to all residents of Otsego. 2. Prioritize the development of parks to reflect population growth rates and locations with inadequate facilities. 3. Attempt to preserve a site's inherent physical amenities and attributes. 4. Be sensitive to adjacent land use in facilities planning. 5. When practical, parks should include conservancy open space areas that preserve city forests, wetlands, natural areas, lakes, streams, and cultural resources. 6. Adopt park master plans prior to any major development and hold public presentations, when appropriate, for general information and public input. 7. Consider the long-term costs of maintenance and operation in facilities design and development. 8. Whenever possible, active use recreation areas should be designed for diverse uses during all seasons. 9. Accept gifts and donations for park facilities if they are in the city's best interest. D. Parks and Trails Maintenance Policies 1. Provide a safe and sanitary environment in all park facilities and trail systems under the direction of the city. 2. Provide an effective system of controlled and consistent maintenance to safeguard the condition of all park facilities and trail systems. 3. Provide ample maintenance of trail facilities to insure their availability for safe use throughout the year. E. General Recreation Program Policies 1. Work with Community Recreation Coordinator to utilize exiting facilities within Otsego as well as the surrounding communities. 2. Insure cooperation with local civic groups that show interest in providing services and events that benefit the community's recreation needs. 3. Establish a system of allowing the leisure services to satisfy the needs of all ages and abilities. 4. Accept gifts and donations for recreation programs if they are in the city's best interest. F. General Public Relations Policies 1. Promote public interest in Otsego's park and recreation programs. 2. Educate residents and facility users on the proper use and safety rules for each facility. 3. Use print and broadcast media, the Otsego View, the city's promotional packet, and informational signs to promote facilities and recreation programs. 4. Develop a concise system of trail graphics and signage. 5. Post trail and park safety rules. VI. PLANS A. Park Planning Districts To assist in the long range plan of the city park system the City was divided up into nine individual park districts. These districts will each be addressed individually based on population, existing and future facilities, and overall location. A goal of the Park and Recreation Commission is to include a park in each of the planning districts. Park Planning District 1 This district lies in the northwestern corner of Otsego. The Mississippi River, including islands, serves as the northern border for this district. Within a mostly rural area there is one subdivision in this district. Park Planning District One contains a boat landing at the end of Kadler Avenue but it does not contain a park site. Park Planning District 2 This district lies in the north central section of Otsego. The Mississippi River, including several islands, serves as the northern border for this district. Within this district lies the city's two major historical sites -the original town hall site, the home of wright County's first white settler, John McDonald, and Otsego's original cemetery. There is a boat landing on to the river at the northern end of Nashua Avenue, but not an existing park. Park Planning District 3 This district lies in the northeastern section of Otsego. The Mississippi River serves as the northern border for this district. A bridge crosses the Mississippi at Parrish Avenue with wide shoulders. There is a sidewalk on the west side of Parrish Avenue that crosses the bridge and continues for one- half mile south. Within this district lies the city's most concentrated urban area. Park Planning District Three includes the Otsego County Park which lies in the north central portion of this district. Because of the existing county park, there are not any plans for this area at this time. Park Planning District 4 This district lies in the west -central section of Otsego. Within this district lies mostly agricultural land and farmsteads. Community volunteers plan to construct a recreational snowmobile trail through this area that will connect with the Wright County snowmobile trail system. a Park Planning District 5 This district lies in the central section of Otsego. The greater part of this district is agricultural land blending in with several existing subdivisions. A large wetland lies in the southwestern corner of Park Planning District Five. The city has purchased over 73 acres of land in this district with the intent to build a city hall. The property lies west of Nashua Avenue, north of 85th Street. Land is being set aside for possible future city buildings and a park. The current concept for the park on this property is for a community park with features appealing to the population of the whole community. It should include active recreation facilities such as game fields, hard surface play courts, skating, and playground equipment as well as passive recreation opportunities such as picnic areas, landscape plantings, and walking trails. Since it is expected that many users will drive to the park, parking facilities will need to be provided. The construction of the first phase of this property is slated for the last half of 1992. Park Planning District 6 This district lies in the east -central section of Otsego bordered on the east side by State Highway 101. This district consists of several subdivisions in the northern section of the district with the remainder being agricultural land. There are not any existing park facilities at this time. There is a plan by the Elk River/Rogers VFW to construct four softball diamonds and two soccer fields along with a community hall in phases during the next several years. This property is located on the corner of Quaday Avenue and 72nd Street. Park Planning District 7 This district lies in the southwestern corner of Otsego with Interstate Highway 94 as it's northern border. Within this district there is one subdivision amid a mostly rural area. The district does not contain a local park site. Park Planning District 8 This district lies in the south-central section of Otsego. It is mostly agricultural land and farmsteads. There are two protected wetlands within this district controlled by the Department of Natural resources. One is Rice Lake which lies in the southeastern portion of this district. The other is a pond at the southern end of Odell Avenue. Park Planning District 9 This district lies in the eastern section of Otsego with the Mississippi River forming it's northern and eastern borders and State Highway 101 as it's western border. It consists of mostly agricultural land with a private recreational vehicle park and a mobile home subdivision located in the center of this district. There is not a plan for a park facility at this time. B. Trail Svstem Plan The trail system should connect activity centers in Otsego, including parks, schools, residential neighborhoods, and commercial centers. Trails should also provide a link to proposed or existing regional trails. An important part of this trail concept is that trails are intended to link all park sites in the city. Only a limited number of park sites are known at this time. It is expected that other trail routes will become evident when additional sites are identified. Otsego's Transportation and Comprehensive Plans were taken into consideration in planning trails. Co. Rd. 42 and Co. Rd. 39 Bike Routes Road improvements by Wright County recently done in Otsego included the addition of paved shoulders on County Roads 42 and 39. This provides an excellent opportunity for a bike route along these roads. The existing bike route on County Road 42 from Dayton to Highway 101 could naturally be extended north to the Mississippi, providing a river crossing and a route to the Otsego County Park as well as a connection to County Road 39. The Park and Recreation Commission should seek the help of the Wright County Park and Wright County Highway Departments on these routes. Co. Rd. 19 Bike Route The Commission should also encourage Wright County to establish a route along County Road 19 that would provide a connection between Albertville and the County Road 39 route. Nashua Avenue With the new city hall and community park on Nashua Avenue and the road improvements being done there, a trail should be established along Nashua between 85th Street and the Mississippi River. The Otsego Creek property located at the southwest corner of County Road 39 and old Nashua Avenue could be included as part of the trail. The Nashua trail would link the city hall and park with the river access and the original townsite and provide a connection between County Road 39 and 85th Street. 96th Street The planned western expansion of the Otsego County Park will include walk-in entrances. That and the planned Antelope Park residential development merit consideration for a trail along 96th Street between County Road 42 and the future connection to County Road 39. Ouaday Avenue A trail along Quaday Avenue south of County Road 42 to the VFW property at 72nd Street will be desired when the VFW develops their playfields. Odean Avenue Odean Avenue is a natural north -south route between County Roads 39 and 37. It could also connect to the Odell Pond. The current traffic and the steep grade on part of Odean make it unsafe for pedestrians and bicycles to travel in conjunction with cars. This should be taken into consideration when planning a trail along Odean. 85th Street 85th Street will give residents a route between Page Avenue (and County Road 42 in the future) and Nashua Avenue, providing access to the community park. Pedestrians and bicyclists on parts of 85th Street are plagued by some of the same problems as on Odean. Kadler Avenue A trail between County Road 39 and the Mississippi River access could follow Kadler Avenue. UPA Richt of Way United Power Association owns an electrical distribution line that traverses Otsego from northeast to southwest. There is potential here to provide an off-road, year-round trail. Mississippi Waterway The Mississippi River borders Otsego on the north and east. This section of the river is part of a canoe route designated by the Department of Natural Resources. Residents could easily take advantage of this waterway with improved public access and more information, such as an annotated guide to this section of the river. Snowmobile Trail Resident volunteers and neighboring snowmobile clubs are working to establish a snowmobile trail in the western part of the city that would connect with the Wright County snowmobile trail system. The Wright County trail currently extends to Albertville near County Road 19. There is also a possible trail proposed for eastern Monticello Township that the Otsego trail could connect with. Snowmobilers are also interested in establishing a trail along the Highway 101 corridor that would provide crossings at the Crow and Mississippi Rivers. Conflicts between snowmobiles and property owners is a concern in Otsego. A designated snowmobile trail could help provide appropriate routes. C. Recreation Prourammin The Otsego City Council sees cooperation with other governmental units or organizations as an economical way to provide recreational programming to city residents. A Community Recreation Coordinator was hired in March 1992 jointly by the Elk River Area School District 728 and participating neighboring communities. Otsego has entered into this joint powers agreement, funding a portion of the cost. Councilmember Ron Black represents Otsego on the Joint Powers Recreation Board. Although the Elk River School District serves most of Otsego, the Monticello and St. Michael -Albertville School Districts are also included in the city. The Otsego City Council has stated their intention to participate in similar programs with the other school districts if they become available. The city of Monticello and Monticello School District 882 have initiated an investigation into such a program. \ ^} ��°�� K�0�~|. ^�� °�� Jan. 6, 1993 Dear Otsego City Council: My term on the Park and Recreation Commission enos this January. I am interested in serving another term, as l would like to be involved in celping put some of the plans of the park commission in place. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely yours, Darlene Solberg ^ Memorandum 'OTSEGO ON THE GREAT RIVER ROAD Date . October 26th, 1992 To Members, Otsego Park and Recreation C.01T1tiiiSS 10I: Mayor Otsego City Counsil rr.)m Marr Wallace. Chair. Otsego Parr; and Recreation Commission Re Minnesota Recreation And Park Association JJ -h Annual Conference This mealo is to inform you of the upcoming conference for the MRPA on Saturday. November 21st in Rochester. Minn. . This is a work shop designed for park and recreation board members and their agency directors. An outstanding faculty, as a team, will mare cogent- ions ogentions on a variety of topics. current problems. and long term concerns confrontinq park and recreation boards and their communities. There will be ample opportunity for questions and for networr_ing between commissioners. There is no registration fee for this Workshop. itit there is a $i0 per person lunch fee. Please consider if ycu can attend this conference. We will discuss travel arrangements at the November meeting. 13474 N.E. 95th Street 0 Otsego, MN 55330 0 (612) 441-4414 0 Fax: 441-8823 roNrthwest Associated Consultants, inc. Invoice submitted to: CITY OF OTSEGO City Administrative Offices 13474 95th Street NE Elk River, MN 55330 ATTN: Elaine Beatty INVOICE 5775 Wayzata Blvd Suite 5 St. Louis Park, MN 554 (612) 595-96 June 2, 1992 Invoice #4090-1 In reference to: MAY 1992 - TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE - CITY PROJECTS Hrs/Rate Amount 92 05 PARKS PLAN jRK 5/21/92 Review and comment on Parks 2.00 68.00 Plan per Mr. Wallace request 34.00/hr jRK 5/27-5/29/92 Review letter from 5.20 208.00 Jacqui Rognli/draft memo to Mark 40.00/hr Wallace/assist Mark Wallace in map preparation rND Secretarial 0.50 11.50 23.00/hr For professional services rendered 7.70 $287.50 Additional charges: 92 05 PARKS PLAN -Photocopies 1.80 Total costs $1.80 Total amount of this bill PAYABLE UPON RECEIPT $289.30 Mark Wallace, Jacquie Rognli 8928 Ohland Avenue NE Otsego, MN 55330 441-7239 August 20, 1992 There are 25 copies of the latest draft Comprehensive Park, Trail and Recreation Plan in the park file drawer. They are only lacking your revised maps. I have prepared the format pages for you to paste your maps on. You will need to copy the map pages and insert them in the proper locations in the copies. I urge you to complete this task as soon as possible. The Star News has already published the release I sent on the hearing and it was covered in the August/September Otsego View. All of my press contacts received releases last month. The only further publicity I expect to see on the hearing will be the official notice (unless Charmaine does a brief for us) . I have received requests for copies of the draft from Westwood Professionals, Bruce Theilan, and the Office of Planning, DNR. Copies should be available to the public NOW. Sincerely, e Rognli Copies to: Floyd Roden Elaine Beatty June 22, 1992 City of Otsego Park Commission Otsego, MN 55330 Dear Otsego Park Commission: On behalf of the Early Childhood and Family Education (ECFE) Advisory Council, we are asking for your support for a plan to build a playground at the Elk River Community Education Building. There is a need for play equipment in the community geared toward this age group (birth to 5), and the ECFE programs conducted in the Elk River Community Education Building would benefit daily from this equipment. These programs serve citizens of Otsego and others throughout the Elk River School District. Current census figures show five hundred one Otsego residents age birth to five and as you well know, Otsego's population has been steadily increasing. Otsego represents approximately fifteen percent of the school district residents in this age group. Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) serves on average fifty percent of the eligible population in our school district and this percentage has been slowly increasing. The following is a preliminary budget for the facility: Playground Equipment - (Delivered and Installed) $11,000.00 Resilient Surfacing - (Handicap Access) 900.00 Concrete Base for resilient surfacing 75.00 Timbers - (perimeter border) 200.00 Concrete Pathways - (Handicap Access) 150.00 Pea Rock - (Landscaping) 315.00 Fencing - full enclosure 3,200.00 $15,840.00 The funding necessary to complete this project is being solicited from the local governments (City of Elk River, City of Otsego, ISD #728), local service organizations (American Legion, Eagles, VFW, KC's, JayCees), and local business and utilities. City of Otsego June 22, 1992 Page 2 We expect to have the playground installed by August so it will be ready for the upcoming school year. We are well aware of how expensive these park and playground areas have become, and that is why we see this as such an important project as it is able to combine the efforts and funds of the entire community to achieve what otherwise might not be achievable. ECFE has already received commitments for over $7,000.00 for this project and we ask for your support. We are requesting monetary support from the City of Otsego in the range of $1,500 - $3,000. This project will provide a top quality playground to the residents of ISD #728 and the Otsego/Elk River community for years to come. We welcome your comments and are available to answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Playground Committee ECFE Advisory Council Jodi Gearou Tim Boerger Michael J. Rogers Telephone: (612) 441-3474 P.O. Box 102 Soc. Sec.: 470-78-0325 Elk River, MN 55330 EDUCATION: Property Loss Control 1989 State Certified Emergency Medical Technician - 1989 State Certified Engineer - 1987 State Certified Fire Fighter - 1987 Dupont Paint Fleet Body and Repair School - Naperville, IL March 1988 Illinois Apparatus Mechanics Course - Peoria, IL Feb. 1988 Course included; Suspension, body specifications, engines, tranmissions and differentials. Also all aspects of repairs. McHenry College - E.M.T. Course - June thru December 1987 Course included all aspects of Emergency Medical Training required for Ambulance and.Fire Department work. General Motors Training Schools - Chevrolet Motor Division - Naperville, IL 6.2 Litre Diagnostic 5-10-86 Hydroboost Brakes 7-01-86 Body Electrical 12-16-86 Clover Park Vocation -School - Fort Stellicom, WA Auto Body and Welding Work - Completed February 1982 Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Warfare - Fort Sam Houston, TX Classifying, handling and dispersing chemical, biological and nuclear agents, completed 1980 - 1981 Truck driving and General Maintenance - Fort Dix, N.J. Operating 2}, 5 and 10 ton tractor trailers and tandum axels Licenced for Tractor trailor and Fuel Handler 5,000 gallon tanker, completed 1980 Wheel Vehicle Mechanics - Fort Leonardwood, MO Multifuel engines, hydrolic and air brakes, steering, trans- missions, transfers, differential and basic wiring, completed 1978 Elk River High School - Elk River, MN General studies, graduation 1977 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/HOBBIES: Hotrods, camping, fishing, remodeling and family. Licensed foster parent. WORK EXPERIENCE: Superintendent of Parks - Grayslake, IL - Grayslake Community Park District - September 1990 - December 1991 Under executive direction, I have full responsibility for the oper- WORK:EXPERIENCE CONT.: Michael J. Rogers ation, maintenance and security of all parks and facilities in the district, which includes the development, implementation of the district - wide grounds, facilities and motorized equipment maintenance program. I had a working position which also includes public safety, working as a liason with division heads, village officials and the public at large. I supervised and trained other employees and volunteers; contracual work crews for park improvements and keep records of maintenance and safety logs as neccessary. Prepare reports for staff and Board of Commissioners, in addition to some administrative responsibilities. Nuisance Animal Control - Licensed by the Department of Conservation to remove unwanted wild animals from homes and business'. State of IL January 1990 - December 1991 Head Maintenance Man - Round Lake Area Park District - Round Lake, IL September 1988 - 1990 Supervise custodians in building maintenance; heating, airconditioning and boiler upkeep. Parks Maintenance - Round Lake Area Park District - May 1988 - September 1988 All types of.turf care, backhoe, front end loader equipment. Took care of 25 acres of parks, ball fields, seeding and planting. Mechanic - Wauconda School Dist. #118, Wauconda, IL June 1987 - May 1988 Responsible for all transportation equipment including; buses, trucks, -lawn equipment and grounds. Took care of stock, parts,' fabrications, welding, painting, bodywork repair and maintenance. On call 24 hour shifts. Firefighter/E.M.T. - Round Lake Fire Protection District January 1987 - January 1991 Paid on call Firefighter/E.M.T. I respond to all aspects of the Fire Department - Drive all fire apparatus and equipment. Mechanic - National School Bus, Inc. Maintain an 84 Bus Fleet August 1984 - June 1987 Plater/Warehouse organizer - Circuit Science, Inc. Printed Circuit Boards, Plymouth, MN January 1984 - August 1984 Fiberlass production worker - Rocket Plastics, Division of Lund Industries, Coon Rapids, MN October 1983 - January 1984 Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Specialist - United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA - Second enlistment to the United States Army October 1979 - Honorably discharged as an E5 promotable October 1983 : � � � ► : f►i�iili3l��[i3►� I am a very hard working, assertive person. I work well under pressure and adapt well to all job situations. REFERENCES ATTACHED I REFERENCES FOR MICHAEL J. ROGERS Mr. Jerry Jarvis Round Lake Firefighter/Paramedic 430 Hillandale Round Lake, IL 60073 (708) 546-6416 Mr. Andrew Orians Officer, Round Lake Police Department Round Lake, IL 60073 (708)546-2341 Mr. Tom Thompson Round Lake Firefighter/Paramedic 629 Highland Round Lake Beach, IL 60073 (708) 546-1897 Rev. Lisle Kauffman 430 East Lake Street Round Lake Park, IL 60073 (708) 546-4444 4 - Round Lake Beach Police Department E.D. Noe, Chief of Police 916 W. Rollins Road Round Lake Beach, Illinois 600' (708) 546.2181 December 11, 1991 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Michael Rogers of 216 Brierhill, Round Lake Park, has been taking care of our wildlife complaints for more than a year now. He has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the delivery of police services to this community. He is a highly motivated and trained handler of wildlife , and our department has grown to depend on his services. Sincerely, v E. D. Noe ` Chief of Police EDN/cw Q.T.ARV of �ug#an October 30, 1992 Dear City Administrators and Park Commissioners, 12260 S. Diamond Lake Rd. Dayton, Minnesota 55327 (612) 427-4589 Fax 427-3708 After the meeting on September 9, 1992, when speaker Dan Collins from the DNR Trails and Waterways, gave the presentation "Update on Rails to Trails", it was decided to hold an informational meeting to discuss future monies for park trails. This new source of funding is called "Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1992 (ISTEA) which plans to broaden funding eligibility for non -highway projects which will directly benefit rail - trail development. This informational meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 1992, at 7:30 PM, in our Council Chambers at the above address. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call me. Thank you. Sincerely, Shirley later City Administrator Phil Forseth Mayor INVOICE Northwest Associated Consultants, inc. Invoice submitted to: CITY OF OTSEGO City Administrative Offices 13474 95th Street NE Elk River, MN 55330 ATTN: Elaine Beatty 5775 Wayzata Blvd Suite 5E St. Louis Park, MN 554' (612) 595-96: June 2, 1992 Invoice #4090-1 In reference to: MAY 1992 - TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE - CITY PROJECTS Hrs/Rate Amount 92 05 PARKS PLAN jRK 5/21/92 Review and comment on Parks 2.00 68.00 Plan per Mr. Wallace request 34.00/hr jRK 5/27-5/29/92 Review letter from 5.20 208.00 Jacqui Rognli/draft memo to Mark 40.00/hr Wallace/assist Mark Wallace in map preparation rND Secretarial 0.50 11.50 23.00/hr For professional services rendered 7.70 $287.50 Additional charges: 92 05 PARKS PLAN -Photocopies 1.80 Total costs $1.80 Total amount of this bill PAYABLE UPON RECEIPT $289.30