HomeMy WebLinkAbout12.11.24 Parks and Rec Packet
Meeting Location:
Farmington City Hall
430 Third Street
Farmington, MN 55024
PARKS AND RECREATION REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
7:00 PM
Page
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVE AGENDA
3. APPROVE MINUTES
3.1. November 13, 2024 Meeting Minutes
Agenda Item: November 13, 2024 Meeting Minutes - Pdf
3 - 7
4. PRESENTATIONS
4.1. Public Comments
Agenda Item: Public Comments - Pdf
8
4.2. Residential and Business Developments Report
Agenda Item: Residential and Business Developments Report - Pdf
9
5. BUSINESS ITEMS
5.1. 2024 Meeting Attendance Report
Agenda Item: 2024 Meeting Attendance Report - Pdf
10 - 11
6. DISCUSSION ITEMS
6.1. Tobacco-Free Parks Policy
Agenda Item: Tobacco-Free Parks Policy - Pdf
12
6.2. 2025 Work Plan Ideas and Draft Plan
Agenda Item: 2025 Work Plan Ideas and Draft Plan - Pdf
13 - 16
6.3. Playground Equipment for Westview Acres Park
Agenda Item: Playground Equipment for Westview Acres Park - Pdf
17
6.4. 2024 Work Plan Progress
Agenda Item: 2024 Work Plan Progress - Pdf
18 - 23
7. COMMISSION ROUNDTABLE
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7.1. Round Table Format
Agenda Item: Round Table Format - Pdf
24
8. STAFF REPORT/UPDATES
8.1. Informational Updates
Agenda Item: Informational Updates - Pdf
25
9. MEETING AGENDA TOPICS
9.1. Possible Items for January 8, 2025 Meeting Agenda
Agenda Item: Possible Items for January 8, 2025 Meeting Agenda - Pdf
26
10. ADJOURN
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: November 13, 2024 Meeting Minutes
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
Attached are the draft minutes from the parks and recreation commission’s November 13, 2024
meeting. Commission members are asked to review the minutes and provide any corrections or
additions that are needed at the meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
November 13, 2024 PRC meeting minutes
Page 3 of 26
Farmington Parks and Recreation Commission
Minutes from the November 13, 2024 Regular Meeting
Members Present: Katie Putt, David McMillen, and Megan Merricks
Members Absent: Cody Fishman and Katharine Caron
Other’s Present: Parks and Recreation Director Kellee Omlid and Parks and Facilities Supervisor Jeremy
Pire
I. Call Meeting to Order
Vice-Chair McMillen called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Quorum was present.
II. Approval of November 13, 2024 Meeting Agenda
Moved by Putt and seconded by Merricks to approve the meeting agenda. All persons in favor (APIF).
Motion carried.
III. Approval of October 9, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes
Moved by Putt and seconded by Merricks to approve the meeting minutes with no revisions. APIF.
Motion carried.
IV. Presentations
A. Public Comments
There were no public comments shared at the meeting.
B. Parks and Recreation Department Reports
Parks and Facilities Supervisor Jeremy Pire presented the summer ice report for the Schmitz-
Maki Arena and park and trail improvements and maintenance. Recent improvements at the
Arena include installation of LED lights over the ice surface and concrete curbing and
landscaping around the sign in front of the Arena. The rebate from Xcel Energy for the LED
lights was significant, which reduced the cost of the lights and installation to less than $5,000.
Parks Maintenance staff completed numerous projects in 2024 with the largest being
improvements to Rambling River Park. Commission thought Rambling River Park looked great,
staff did an impressive job, and thanked staff for all their hard work and efforts.
V. Business Items
VI. Discussion Items
A. Depot Way Arts Park
Commissioner McMillen provided an update on his conversations with Zion Tattoo. They would
be interested in partnering if it was rotating art that was interactive. Commission members
were hesitant on the art theme due to upkeep and who is going to manage it. If the Street Arts
Class from Farmington High School is eliminated and/or teachers change in the future, will the
art park turn into what is currently there. Long-term is maintenance and upkeep practical.
There was interest in keeping the tiles at the entrances to the park and the other art pieces can
Page 4 of 26
be removed. Hammocking poles and more seating was recommended. Commissioner McMillen
will contact the Dakota County Historical Society for information on the railroad, Vermillion
River, and elevator. Director Omlid mentioned the Fire Department is looking for a park to
install a first responder’s memorial and mentioned to them Depot Way Arts Park and Jim Bell
Park and Preserve. Their initial thought was Rambling River Park next to the Veteran’s
Memorial. Discussion on will Rambling River Park be too crowded, how large, and where. The
Fire Department is planning to form a committee and will start to identify a location in 2025.
B. 2025 Work Plan Ideas
The commission reviewed the 2025 work plan ideas they suggested at their October 9, 2024
meeting. The consensus was it is a full work plan. There was discussion regarding meeting with
the City of Empire Parks and Recreation Commission. Commission thought keep it in the
rotation and were fine meeting with them in 2025 if they wanted to meet with us. The tour was
great, but unless something changes don’t need to do it annually. Tour suggestions in the City
of Rosemount included the skate park, splash pad, disc golf course, Steeples Center, and
possibly the Community Center if renovations are completed.
C. 2024 Work Plan Progress
Vice-Chair McMillen reviewed the progress of the goals and objectives of the 2024 work plan.
VII. Commission Roundtable
McMillen: Didn’t have anything to share.
Putt: Asked about not being able to reserve park shelters after October 1. Director Omlid stated the
restrooms at Rambling River Park are usually winterized the first week in October and portable toilets
might be removed from parks as it depends on the flag football schedule.
Caron: Director Omlid red an email sent by Commissioner Caron for roundtable regarding Westview
Park: “I spoke with Joe Sage quickly about if there would be any interest in working with BMS to help
gear this park more towards a secondary level, and he said that would be great. We should decide if this
is something we are interested in, is it even a good idea, etc.”
Merricks: Didn’t have anything to share.
Fishman: N/A
VIII. Staff Report/Updates
Director Omlid provided information on the following:
A. Holiday Events in Farmington
There are several holiday events happening in Farmington this season including, but not limited
to, Toys for Town, Small Business Saturday, Rotary Tree Lighting, Holiday Lights Tour, Secret
Holiday Shop, Homestead Church Carnival, Library Festivities, Dakota Village, Lighted Holiday
Parade, Downtown Farmington Celebration, Toys for Town Wrapping Day, Skate with Santa, and
Rotary Senior Holiday Luncheon.
B. Rambling River Center Renovations
Bids for the renovation project were due November 5; eight (8) bids were received. CM
Construction Company, Inc. was the lowest bidder at $2,021,126. Staff checked references,
which were positive. Accepting the bids and awarding a contract is on city council’s agenda for
Monday. Hopefully, the preconstruction meeting for the project will be the week of
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December 2.
C. Pilot Knob Road Trail Additional Underpass Evaluation and Trail Phasing Analysis
The Second Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with Dakota County for additional
underpass evaluation and trail phasing analysis was approved by city council on November 4.
Bolton & Menk started on these additional trail design projects and staff should see the
underpass re-evaluation results for Pilot Knob Road trail in December.
D. Farmington Preliminary Greenway Design
Dakota County contracted with KLJ Engineering for preliminary design of the Greenways through
the cities of Farmington, Empire, and Rosemount. This includes the trails through Rambling
River Park and the final segment of the North Creek Greenway, which will be new trail from
Riverview Elementary School to Mystic Meadows. The kick-off meeting for the project will be
on Monday and will include staff from the city, county, and KLJ Engineering.
E. Dakota County’s 2050 Vision Plan – Parks, Greenways, and Natural Systems
Dakota County is developing their 2050 Vision Plan for Parks, Greenways, and Natural Systems.
Thus, city staff met with staff from Dakota County to provide input on parks and greenways.
The county asked if there were ideas for community trail loops off the greenways. The county
heard through the visioning process that trail loops are important to users. They have created a
concept plan for a Farmington – Lakeville trail loop. The county is exploring a conservation area
in Farmington, which may include trails and benches. City staff asked about partnering for Jim
Bell Park and Preserve; the county was interested in exploring this opportunity. The draft plan
will be presented in December at a city council meeting or work session. Suggestion was made
to have it as a work session with both city council and the parks and recreation commission.
F. Tobacco-Free Parks Policy
The Planning Commission is working on an ordinance for potential zoning regulations for
cannabis uses including cultivation, manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and transportation and
delivery. This may or may not include smoking cannabis. Does the tobacco-free parks policy get
combined with cannabis regulations? The planning commission and city council are meeting
Monday in a work session to discuss cannabis legislation and regulations.
G. Vermillion Grove Boardwalk
At the October meeting, Commissioner Caron asked about the Vermillion Grove boardwalk and
suggested a dock for bird and animal watching. The Vermillion Grove Park boardwalk was built /
installed in approximately 2004. Parks and Facilities Supervisor Pire thought Parks Maintenance
could build / add a sitting dock.
IX. Meeting Agenda Topics
The following items were tentatively identified by the commission for its December 11, 2024 meeting
agenda:
1. Depot Way Arts Park
X. Adjournment
Moved by Merricks and seconded by Putt to adjourn the meeting. APIF. Motion carried. The meeting
was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
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Kellee Omlid
Parks & Recreation Director and Recording Secretary
Page 7 of 26
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Public Comments
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
This agenda item allows the public to speak to commission members about any item that is not on
the agenda. When speaking to the commission it must be in a respectful and non-threatening
manner.
Anyone wishing to provide public comments must provide their name and address for the record.
Public comments shall not exceed five minutes.
The commission will not respond to the comments and a formal written response will be sent prior
to the next commission meeting to the person who made the public comments. Under no
circumstances will any formal action be taken on the public comments that are provided to the
commission.
Page 8 of 26
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Residential and Business Developments Report
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
Planning Manager Tony Wippler will be in attendance to present information on current and future
residential and business developments.
Commission members are asked to listen to the presentation and ask any questions they have.
Page 9 of 26
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: 2024 Meeting Attendance Report
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
Included in the packet is the attendance report for monthly meetings and special meetings based
on 2024 monthly meeting minutes approved by commission. The final attendance report will be
updated at the December meeting, reflecting member attendance that occurs at this meeting. Then
it will be formally approved by the commission.
The approved attendance report will be submitted to the city’s Finance Department for payment to
commission members. Commission members will receive $30 per meeting attended, which is
based on the current city ordinance. Commission members should receive payment for their
attendance at the 2024 meetings in the form of a mailed check in the next few weeks.
Commission members are asked to review the attached 2024 meeting attendance report, make any
needed revisions, and then approve the report after it has been updated at the December meeting,
so it can be submitted for payment.
ATTACHMENTS:
2024 Meeting Attendance Report
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2024 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Attendance Report
Name Jan 10 Feb 14 Mar 13 Apr 10 May 8 *June 10 June 12 July 10 **Aug 6 Aug 14 ***Aug 28 Sept 11 Oct 9 Nov 13 ****Dec 5 Dec 11
*****Total
Meetings
Attended
Katharine Caron x x x x x x x x x x x x x 13
Katie Putt x x x x x x x x x x x 11
David McMillen x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 14
Megan Merricks x x x x x x x x x x x x x 13
Cody Fishman x x x x x x x x x x x x 12
*****Total number of meetings attended prior to the December 11, 2024 meeting
**** Boards and Commissions Reception
*** August 28 parks and facilities tour with city council and Rambling River Center Advisory Board
* June 10 joint meeting with the planning commission
**August 6 parks and facilities tour with Empire Parks and Recreation Commission
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Tobacco-Free Parks Policy
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
One of the parks and recreation commission’s (the commission) work plan goals for 2024 is to
“Develop a Tobacco-Free Parks Policy.”. Commission started the discussion of what should be
included in a City of Farmington tobacco-free parks policy at their February 14, 2024 meeting. This
included counties. and cities area metro policies from and ordinances reviewing other
Commission’s direction from the February 14, 2024 meeting was to keep the tobacco-free parks
policy simple, don’t overcomplicate it, and not tons of exceptions. The consensus was the
enforcement mechanism should be voluntary compliance and all parks and trails should always be
tobacco-free. Parking lots would be excluded from the tobacco-free parks policy.
At their March 13, 2024 meeting, commission discussed city facilities including the Rambling River
Center and Schmitz-Maki Arena in regards to a tobacco-free parks policy. The consensus from
commission was to leave city facilities out of the tobacco-free policy. Due to other department
priorities and tobacco use in City of Farmington parks currently not an issue, a draft tobacco-free
parks policy has not yet been created.
In June 2024, the planning commission started the discussion on cannabis businesses and zoning
to prepare for the operation of cannabis businesses beginning after January 1, 2025. The city hired
HKGi to assist with development of the city’s cannabis regulations, which includes development of
an ordinance for potential zoning regulations for cannabis uses including cultivation, manufacturing,
wholesale, retail, and transportation and delivery. The planning commission and city council had a
joint work session on November 18, 2024 to discuss draft code (ordinance) language relating to the
new cannabis legislation and regulations. During discussions, smoking cannabis in public places
specifically parks came up. Consensus from city council was they would support a smoke free
parks ordinance to include cigarettes, vaping, and cannabis, but weren’t in favor of chewing
tobacco. Their initial discussion was trails, parking lots, and facilities could be excluded from the
ordinance.
Commission should discuss a smoke free parks ordinance, what should be included / excluded,
enforcement, etc. and provide direction to staff so the city attorney can develop a draft ordinance to
be presented to the commission at a future meeting for action.
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: 2025 Work Plan Ideas and Draft Plan
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
Included in the packet is a draft 2025 work plan for the commission to consider. It is based on
commission members input about possible work plan items provided at the October and November
meetings. Commission members should come to the meeting prepared to discuss the draft work
plan and other possible ideas for additional items to work on in 2025. Based on the input provided
by the commission during the meeting, staff will revise and bring a final work plan to the
commission to approve at its January 8, 2025 meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Draft 2025 Parks and Recreation Commission Work Plan
Page 13 of 26
FARMINGTON PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Draft 2025 WORK PLAN
Goal #1: Provide to the City Council a recommended 2026-2030 capital improvement plan for
the park improvement fund.
Objectives:
1. By April 1, the Commission will have discussed and identified a preliminary list of five-year
capital improvement projects for the park improvement fund that will include a list of parks,
costs, and schedule to be completed in the years 2026 to 2030.
2. By August 1, the Commission will finalize the five-year capital improvement projects for the
years 2026-2030 and make a recommendation to the City Council for approval.
3. By December 31, the improvement projects recommended for funding from 2026-2030 will be
included in the City Council’s approved 2026 final budget.
Goal #2: Participate in a parks and facilities tour with the Rambling River Center Advisory
Board and City Council.
Objectives:
1. By March 1, the Commission, Advisory Board and City Council will have identified a date to
have a tour.
2. By May 1, a draft list of parks and facilities to tour will be reviewed by the Commission.
3. By June 1, a final list of parks and facilities to tour will be approved by the Commission.
4. By October 1, a parks and facilities tour will have occurred.
Goal #3: Participate in a work session with City Council.
Objectives:
1. By February 1, a date to have a work session with City Council will be identified.
2. By May 1, a list of work session topic(s) will be approved by the Commission.
3. By October 1, a work session with City Council will have occurred.
Goal #4: Participate in the process of replacing the playground equipment and swings (5-12
years) at Westview Acres Park.
Objectives:
1. By February 1, the Commission will have discussed and decided on preferences for playground
equipment style, play features, etc.
2. By April 1, the Commission will have reviewed playground equipment proposal(s) and made a
recommendation to the City Council on the purchase and construction of new playground
equipment.
3. By May 1, City Council will have approved the purchase and construction of new playground
equipment.
4. By October 31, installation of the new playground equipment at Westview Acres Park will have
been completed and a ribbon cutting ceremony will have occurred.
Page 14 of 26
Goal #5: Identify Bike Pedestrian Plan Priorities to Accomplish in 2025.
Objectives:
1. By March 31, the Commission will have reviewed the priorities identified in the Bike
Pedestrian Plan.
2. By May 15, the Commission will have developed and approved a list of priorities to work on
and complete in 2025-2026.
3. By December 31, Commission members will have worked with staff to accomplish the Bike
Pedestrian Plan priorities it identified to complete.
Goal #6: Participate in the process of identifying and making improvements at Depot Way Arts
Park.
Objectives:
1. By March 1, the Commission will have decided if art remains a focus of the park and have set a
date for the open house.
2. By May 1, an open house seeking ideas for improvement will have been held.
3. By July 1, the Commission will have given input on potential improvements.
4. By August 1, cost estimates and potential funding sources will be identified and shared.
5. By November 1, improvements that can be completed by staff and/or volunteers will be
finished.
6. By July 1, 2026 all other improvements will have been completed and a ribbon cutting
ceremony will have occurred.
Goal #7: Host food truck event in the spring with the City of Empire Parks and Recreation
Commission.
Objectives:
1. By February 1, the date and location for the spring food truck event will be approved.
2. By May 15, Commission members will have decided who will help at what times with the spring
food truck event.
3. By May 31, the spring food truck event will have happened.
Goal #8: Participate in Community Outreach and Engagement.
Objectives:
1. By April 1, the commission will have discussed community outreach and engagement, what the
Commission wants to know / learn, and where and how to reach and engage.
2. By May 1, community outreach and engagement opportunities and details will have been
finalized.
3. By December 1, community outreach and engagement will have occurred.
Goal #9: Develop a Tobacco-Free Parks Policy.
Objectives:
Page 15 of 26
1. By February 1, the Commission will have reviewed the draft tobacco-free parks policy and
made recommendations for edits and forwarded draft with updated edits to Planning
Commission for approval.
2. By March 1, the Planning Commission will have reviewed draft policy and made
recommendations for edits and forwarded draft with updated edits to City Council for
approval.
3. By April 1, the policy will have been presented to City Council for approval.
Goal #10: Receive periodic presentations from each of the parks and recreation department’s
professional staff members about programs, parks, facilities and trails and a presentation from
the Finance Director on the budget and a presentation from the Planning Manager on new
housing and business developments.
Objectives:
1. By April 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from the Finance Director
on the city’s budget and funding sources.
2. By May 15, the Commission will have received a presentation by professional staff members of
the Department’s 2024 Annual Report.
3. By June 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff on the results of
the Schmitz-Maki Arena’s winter ice season.
4. By July 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from the Planning
Manager on current and future developments.
5. By September 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff on the first
half operations of the Rambling River Center.
6. By October 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff on the results
of the summer programs offered.
7. By December 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff about the
spring turf season and summer ice season.
8. By December 15, the Commission will have received a presentation from staff about
maintenance and improvements to parks and trails.
Goal #11: Tour City of Rosemount Parks and Recreation Facilities and Amenities to learn more
and see options for desired improvements.
Objectives:
1. By March 1, the Commission will have identified a preferred and backup date for the tour and
draft list of facilities and amenities to tour and see respectively.
2. By May 1, a date and final list of facilities and amenities to tour will be approved by the
Commission.
3. By October 1, a tour of City of Rosemount Parks and Recreation Facilities and Amenities will
have occurred.
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Playground Equipment for Westview Acres Park
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
The playground equipment (5–12-year-old children) and swings at Westview Acres Park were
installed in 2000 making them 24 years old. The playground equipment and swings need to be
replaced. At its June 12, 2024 meeting, the commission approved the draft five-year (2025-2029)
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the Park Improvement Fund and recommended city council
approve with the final 2025 budget. This CIP included replacement of the playground equipment
(5-12 years) and swings at Westview Acres Park in 2025. As part of the final 2025 budget approval
by city council at their meeting on December 2, 2024, the 2025-2029 CIP was accepted. Thus, it is
time to start the process to replace the playground equipment and swings.
At the October 9, 2024 meeting, a commission member inquired about adding equipment geared
for middle school students when replacing the 5–12-year-old playground equipment at Westview
Acres Park. Students at Boeckman Middle School (BMS) regularly ask teachers if they can go play
at the park. Commission member Caron had a brief conversation with the principal of BMS to see if
there would be any interest in working together to gear the park more towards a secondary level
and he thought that would be great.
Commission members should discuss preferences for playground equipment style, play features,
theme, etc. for Westview Acres Park and provide direction to staff so proposals can be requested
from companies and brought to a future meeting for commission input.
Page 17 of 26
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: 2024 Work Plan Progress
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
The commission’s updated 2024 work plan is included in the meeting packet. Shown in bold red
are work plan items completed either at or since the last commission meeting held on November
13, 2024. Items that are in bold black have been completed.
Commission members should be prepared to review the work plan to identify any other additional
items that have been completed and then discuss other work plan items it would like to work on at
future meetings.
ATTACHMENTS:
2024 Parks and Recreation Commission Work Plan December Update
Page 18 of 26
FARMINGTON PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
2024 WORK PLAN
Goal #1: Provide to the City Council a recommended 2025-2029 capital improvement plan for
the park improvement fund.
Objectives:
1. By April 1, the Commission will have discussed and identified a preliminary list of five-year
capital improvement projects for the park improvement fund that will include a list of parks,
costs, and schedule to be completed in the years 2025 to 2029.
Status: Completed. The commission discussed and approved a recommendation to city
council to approve a five-year CIP for the park improvement fund for the years 2025-2029.
2. By August 1, the Commission will finalize the five-year capital improvement projects for the
years 2025-2029 and make a recommendation to the City Council for approval.
Status: Completed. The commission discussed and approved a recommendation to city
council to approve a five-year CIP for the park improvement fund for the years 2025-2029.
3. By December 31, the improvement projects recommended for funding from 2025-2029 will be
included in the City Council’s approved 2025 final budget.
Status: Completed. City Council approved the 2025-2029 capital improvement plan for the
park improvement fund at their December 2, 2024 meeting.
Goal #2: Participate in a parks and facilities tour with the Rambling River Center Advisory
Board and City Council.
Objectives:
1. By March 1, the Commission, Advisory Board and City Council will have identified a date to
have a tour.
Status: Completed. August 28 has been set for the tour.
2. By May 1, a draft list of parks and facilities to tour will be reviewed by the Commission.
Status: Completed. The commission recommended parks and facilities to tour at their May 8
meeting.
3. By June 1, a final list of parks and facilities to tour will be approved by the Commission.
Status: The commission approved the tour sites and schedule at their July 10, 2024 meeting.
4. By October 1, a parks and facilities tour will have occurred.
Status: Completed. The parks and facilities tour with the Rambling River Center Advisory
Board and city council was held on August 28.
Goal #3: Participate in a work session with City Council.
Objectives:
1. By February 1, a date to have a work session with City Council will be identified.
2. By May 1, a list of work session topic(s) will be approved by the Commission.
3. By October 1, a work session with City Council will have occurred.
Page 19 of 26
Goal #4: Participate in the process of finishing and making improvements at Sunny Hills Park,
Flagstaff Meadows Park, and Rambling River Park.
Objectives:
1. By January 1, City Council will have approved the purchase and installation of new
playground equipment for Rambling River Park.
Status: Completed. At their December 18, 2023 meeting, City Council approved the purchase
and installation of playground equipment for Rambling River Park.
2. By June 1, the final improvements at Sunny Hills Park will be completed and a ribbon cutting
ceremony will have occurred.
Status: Completed. A ribbon cutting at Sunny Hills Park was held on July 10, 2024.
3. By July 1, the final improvements at Flagstaff Meadows Park will be completed and a ribbon
cutting ceremony will have occurred.
Status: Completed. A ribbon cutting at Flagstaff Meadows Park was held on August 14,
2024.
4. By July 15, installation of the new playground equipment at Rambling River Park will have
been completed and a ribbon cutting ceremony will have occurred.
Status: Completed. A ribbon cutting for the new playground equipment at Rambling River
Park was held on August 28.
Goal #5: Identify Bike Pedestrian Plan Priorities to Accomplish in 2024.
Objectives:
1. By March 31, the Commission will have reviewed the priorities identified in the Bike
Pedestrian Plan.
Status: Completed. The Commission reviewed and discussed the priorities identified in the
Bike Pedestrian Plan at their March 13 meeting.
2. By May 15, the Commission will have developed and approved a list of priorities to work on
and complete in 2024-2025.
Status: Completed. The Commission discussed completing an Educational and
Encouragement Program.
3. By December 31, Commission members will have worked with staff to accomplish the Bike
Pedestrian Plan priorities it identified to complete.
Status: Completed. Parks and Recreation partnered with the Police Department to host
Helmet Heroes on Saturday, June 1 from 9-11 a.m. in the parking lot at Farmington
Lutheran Church.
Goal #6: Participate in the process of identifying and making improvements at Depot Way Arts
Park.
Objectives:
1. By November 1, the Commission will have discussed Depot Way Arts Park and brainstormed
potential improvements, ideas, partners, etc.
Status: Completed. The Commission discussed Depot Way Arts Park and brainstormed
potential ideas, partners, and open house at their September 11 meeting.
2. By February 1, 2025, an open house seeking ideas for improvement will have been held.
Status: Postponed. At their September 11 meeting, commission decided to wait until spring
to hold the open house.
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3. By March 1, 2025, the Commission will have given input on potential improvements.
4. By May 1, 2025, cost estimates and potential funding sources will be identified and shared.
5. By August 1, 2025, improvements that can be completed by staff and/or volunteers will be
finished.
Goal #7: Host food truck events in the spring and fall with City of Empire Parks and Recreation
Commission.
Objectives:
1. By January 1, the date and location for the spring food truck event will be approved.
Status: Completed. Friday, May 17 from 5 – 8 p.m. in Empire at Stelzel Ball Fields was
approved for the spring food truck event at the joint meeting on October 23, 2023.
2. By April 1, the details, including, but not limited to date, location, and music, of the fall food
truck event will be approved. Commission will also have decided who will contact the food
trucks to see if they are interested in participating.
Status: Completed. It was decided by both parks and recreation commissions to not host a
fall food truck event in 2024.
3. By May 15, Commission members will have decided who will help at what times with the spring
food truck event.
Status: Completed. The Commission decided at their April 10 meeting who would work from
4:45-6:30 p.m. and 6:30-8:15 p.m.
4. By May 31, the spring food truck event will have happened.
Status: Completed. The spring food truck event was held May 17 with seven food trucks and
over 1,200 attendees.
5. By September 1, Commission members will have decided who will help at what times with the
fall food truck event.
Status: Not Completed. It was decided by both parks and recreation commissions to not host
a fall food truck event in 2024.
6. By September 30, the fall food truck event will have happened.
Status: Not Completed. It was decided by both parks and recreation commissions to not host
a fall food truck event in 2024.
7. By October 31, the commissions will have jointly discussed and evaluated the spring and fall
food truck events.
Status: Not Completed. It was decided by both parks and recreation commissions to not host
a fall food truck event in 2024.
Goal #8: Continue to build and strengthen relationships with the City of Empire Parks and
Recreation Commission, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Dakota
County Parks.
Objectives:
1. By February 1, organize and host a presentation by the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR).
Status: Completed. TJ Debates, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, attended the
January 10 parks and recreation commission meeting and presented on fisheries
management and Vermillion River.
2. By June 1, organize and conduct a joint parks tour with the City of Empire.
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Status: Completed. The joint parks tour with the City of Empire Parks and Recreation
Commission was held on August 6.
3. By October 1, organize and host a presentation by Dakota County Parks.
Status: Completed. Niki Geisler, Parks Director, and Tony Wotzka, Greenway Manager,
attended the July 10 parks and recreation commission meeting and presented on Dakota
County Parks, projects, and greenways.
Goal #9: Develop a Tobacco-Free Parks Policy.
Objectives:
1. By April 1, review tobacco-free parks policies from other cities in Dakota County and discuss
what should be included in a City of Farmington Tobacco-Free Parks Policy.
Status: Completed. At their February 14 meeting, the commission reviewed policies and
ordinances from other cities and discussed what should be included in the City of
Farmington Tobacco-Free Parks Policy.
2. By May 1, review draft tobacco-free parks policy and make recommendations for edits.
Status: Paused. The Planning Commission is working on an ordinance for potential zoning
regulations for cannabis uses including cultivation, manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and
transportation and delivery. This may include smoking cannabis, cigarettes, and vaping in
public spaces including parks.
3. By July 1, forward updated draft policy to Dakota County Public Health and Tobacco-Free
Alliance for feedback.
4. By August 15, further discuss and revise the policy, if needed, based on feedback from Dakota
County Public Health and Tobacco-Free Alliance, and forward to City Council for approval.
5. By September 15, present policy to City Council for approval.
Goal #10: Receive periodic presentations from each of the parks and recreation department’s
professional staff members about programs, parks, facilities and trails and a presentation from
the Finance Director on the budget and a presentation from the Planning Manager on new
housing and business developments.
Objectives:
1. By April 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from the Finance Director
on the city’s budget and funding sources.
Status: Not Completed. It was decided at the May 8 meeting to not have a presentation from
the Finance Director this year to let her get settled into her new position.
2. By May 15, the Commission will have received a presentation by professional staff members of
the Department’s 2023 Annual Report.
Status: Completed. The Annual Report was presented at the March 13 meeting.
3. By June 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff on the results of
the Schmitz-Maki Arena’s winter ice season.
Status: Completed. Parks and Facilities Supervisor Jeremy Pire presented the results of the
Schmitz-Maki Arena’s 2023-2024 winter season at the April 10 meeting.
4. By July 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from the Planning
Manager on current and future developments.
5. By September 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff on the first
half operations of the Rambling River Center.
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Status: Completed. Recreation Supervisor Missie Kohlbeck presented the first eight months
of the Rambling River Center at the October 9 meeting.
6. By October 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff on the results
of the summer programs offered.
Status: Completed. Recreation Supervisor Missie Kohlbeck and Recreation Supervisor
Emilee Shearer presented spring through fall programs at the October 9 meeting.
7. By December 15, Commission members will have received a presentation from staff about the
spring turf season and summer ice season.
Status: Completed. Parks and Facilities Supervisor Jeremy Pire presented the results of the
summer ice season at the November 13 meeting.
8. By December 15, the Commission will have received a presentation from staff about
maintenance and improvements to parks and trails.
Status: Completed. Parks and Facilities Supervisor Jeremy Pire presented information about
maintenance and improvements to parks and trails at the November 13 meeting.
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Round Table Format
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
The round table agenda item allows commission members to share information or ask staff about
items not on the agenda. No formal decisions are made during this agenda item.
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Informational Updates
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
This agenda item is an opportunity for staff to provide informational updates to commission
members. These items are informational only and no formal decision can be made during this
agenda item.
Staff will provide an update during the meeting about the following:
1.Rambling River Center Renovations
2.Pilot Knob Road Trail Additional Underpass Evaluation and Trail Phasing Analysis
3.Holiday Lights Tour
4.Outdoor Rinks and Warming Houses
5.Park Dedication for Farmington Technology Park
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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION AGENDA MEMO
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Kellee Omlid, Parks & Recreation Director
Department: Parks & Recreation
Subject: Possible Items for January 8, 2025 Meeting Agenda
Meeting: Parks and Recreation Commission - Dec 11 2024
INTRODUCTION:
The following are possible topics staff has identified for commission to consider for its January 8,
2025 meeting agenda:
•2025 Work Plan
•Discussion Chair and Vice-Chair Elections During February Meeting
•Depot Way Arts Park
•Playground Equipment for Westview Acres Park
•Tobacco-Free Parks Policy
Commission members should come prepared to identify other possible topics for the January 8,
2025 meeting agenda.
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