HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/02/2023
Meeting Location: Municipal Center
City of
7100 147th Street West
Apple Valley, Minnesota 55124
March 2, 2023
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
INFORMAL MEETING TENTATIVE AGENDA
6:00 p.m.
1.2023 Committee Goals
2.Update on sign master plan
3.Misc. Committee / Staff Communications
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
REGULAR MEETING TENTATIVE AGENDA
7:00 p.m.
1.Call to Order and Pledge
2.Election of Officers – Chair and Secretary
3.Approval of the Agenda
4.Audience –10 Minutes Total Time Limit – For Items Not on this Agenda
5.Approval of the November 2022 and January 2023Minutes
6.Agenda Items
A.Committee’s Annual Report
B. Division Updates
1.)Department’s Annual Report
2.)Review of Park Projects (Mike)
3.)Review/Preview of Valleywood Golf Course (Jim)
7.Committee / Staff Discussion Items
8.Adjourn
NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETINGS - Tentative:
Thursday, April 6, 2023 6:00 p.m. (Informal) and 7:00 p.m. (Regular)
Regular meetings are available on Spectrum Cable Channel180 and on the City’s website at
www.applevalleymn.gov
ITEM:
2.
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY
City of
March 2, 2023
COMMITTEEMEETING DATE:
SECTION:
Regular
ITEM DESCRIPTION:
Election of Officers
STAFF CONTACT: DEPARTMENT/DIVISION:
Kayla Hechsel, Admin Coordinator Parks and Recreation Department
Action Requested:
1) Motion to Accept Vote Results for the Positions of Chairperson and Secretary
Summary:
City policy requires the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee annually elect a Chairperson and a Secretary.
The Chairperson will preside over the meetings and the Secretary will sign any special meeting notifications and
will lead meetings in the event the Chairperson is absent. All current members of the Committee are eligible for
these offices.
Once elections results have been announced, the new Chairperson will assume the role and continue with the
meeting.
Background:
Committee members may:
a.) Vote for any nominee, except where Minnesota Statutes §471.46 prohibits a member of the
Committee from voting for himself or herself.
b.) Abstain from voting.
A ballot will be provided at the meeting. After a vote has been received from each Committee member present,
the Administrative Coordinator will tally the votes and announce the results. A nominee must receive a majority
of votes of the quorum to be appointed. In case of a tie vote, the Chairperson shall make the appointment as
provided by state law, except Minnesota Statutes §471.46 prohibits a member of the Committee from voting for
himself or herself (Statute follows).
2023 Committee Members
Dave Freed
Noel Hammill
Lisa Hiebert
Matthew Hinrichs
Craig Long
Mark Schori
Brenton Schulz
MINNESOTA STATUTES §471.46
471.46 VACANCIES; PERSONS INELIGIBLE TO APPOINTMENT.
No county, city, town, or school district officer shall be appointed to fill a vacancy in any elective office if
the officer has the power, either alone or as a member of a board, to make the appointment; and the ineligibility
shall not be affected by resignation before such appointment is made. This section shall not prevent the
appointment of a member of a city council to the office of mayor or clerk, but in that case the member shall not
vote in the appointment.
History:
(254-49) 1939 c 249; 1943 c 346 s 1; 1959 c 422 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1986 c 444
ITEM:
5.
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY
City of
March2, 2023
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE:
SECTION:
Regular
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
November 3, 2022
Minutes of the November 3, 2022,Apple Valley Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.
PRESENT: Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Chair Brent Schulz; Committee
Members Dave Freed, Mark Schori, Lisa Hiebert, Noel Hammill, and Craig Long; Parks and
Recreation Director Eric Carlson; Parks SuperintendentMike Endres; and Golf Course
Manager Jim Zinck.
ABSENT: Committee Member Matthew Hinrichs
ITEM 1. Call to Order
Chair Schulz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Everyone took part in the Pledge of
Allegiance.
ITEM 2. Approval of Agenda
Request by staff to add an informal meeting of the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
on December 8, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. with the City Council to discuss the possible parks bond
referendum.
MOTION: by Freed, seconded by Schori, approving the Agenda as presented
VOTE: Yes – 6, No – 0
ITEM 3. Audience – 10 Minutes Total Time Limit – For Items Not on the Agenda
No one present to speak.
ITEM 4. Approval of the August Minutes.
MOTION: by Schori, seconded by Hiebert, to approve the August 4, 2022,
minutes as presented.
VOTE: Yes – 6, No – 0
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
November 3, 2022
ITEM 5.A.Agenda Items – DepartmentFee Schedule for 2023 – All Divisions
Parks & Recreation Department staff made recommendations on schedule and fee
changes for 2023 pertaining to facilities, aquatics, fields, parks, and ValleywoodGolf
Course. (Fee changes have also been recommended for the Hayes and Sports Arena, with
note that the changes pertain to the 2023-2024 ice season.)
Staff is proposing a few schedule modifications and slight changes to some fees in all
divisions. Rates are based on expenditure costs as well as comparison of area
competitors. All fees include applicable taxes unless noted.
Committee members expressed collective appreciation that not all fees increased, but that
most stayed the same and that a few even decreased. Golf Course Manager Jim Zinck
provided more explanation on the proposed golf course fee increases. He outlined that
though fees per round are slightly increasing, costs may be adjusted in August when the
irrigation replacement project begins on the course and affects play as a result.
Valleywood saw a record number of rounds/revenue in 2022, and while industry
professionals predict that the growth may level off in the coming years, Valleywood
welcomed many new people to the sport this year.
The Committee also asked about the consideration of a season pass for the Apple Valley
Family Aquatic Center. Staff responded that a season pass was not considered for 2023,
though the topic may come up in future parks bond referendum conversations.
MOTION: by Freed, seconded by Long, approving the Department Fee
Schedules for 2023 for all Divisions and granting the Parks &
Recreation Director latitude to adjust fees for promotion as needed.
VOTE: Yes – 6, No – 0
- 2 of 4 -
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
November 3, 2022
ITEM 6. Agenda Items – 2023 Meeting Schedule
In light of the potential upcoming park bond referendum, staff anticipates there will be
pertinent and important information for the Committee to review, and staff therefore requests
setting a monthly meeting schedule for 2023. The understanding is that unnecessary meetings
will be cancelled.
MOTION: by Hammill, seconded by Schori, to approve the 2023 meeting
schedule – January 5, February 2, March 2, April 6, May 4, June 1,
July 20, August 3, September 7, October 5, November 2, and
December 7, 2023.
VOTE: Yes – 6, No – 0
ITEM 7. Agenda Items – Division Updates
In addition to the division updates included in the agenda packet for review, Parks
Superintendent Endres gave clarification on the improvements to the Johnny Cake Ridge
Park East Maintenance Building, which will not be completely replaced as initially proposed.
A discussion on the effects of the summer drought on spring conditions also occurred, with
Superintendent Endres expressing his concerns over the health of our young trees. Parks
maintenance staff did as much as they could to mitigate the effects of the drought, but staff
will need to wait until spring to see the effectiveness of those measures.
ITEM 8. Agenda Items – Committee / Staff Communications
Director Carlson brought forth a proposal by a resident to donate a memorial disc golf basket
at Apple Ponds Park. Staff have the opinion that a memorial tree or bench would be more
appropriate at that specific park, but if the resident wants to donate a disc golf basket, it
should be placed in the disc golf course at Alimagnet Park. After discussion, the Committee
asked staff to review the City’s existing policies and revisit the conversation at the next
meeting.
ITEM 9. Adjourn
There being no further business, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee meeting was
adjourned.
MOTION: by Freed, seconded by Hiebert, to adjourn the meeting at 7:35 p.m.
VOTE: Yes – 6, No – 0
- 3 of 4 -
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
November 3, 2022
Respectfully Submitted,
Kayla Hechsel, Administrative Coordinator
Approved by the Apple Valley Parks
and Recreation Advisory Committee Brent Schulz,Chair
on March 2, 2023.
- 4 of 4 -
ITEM:
5.
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY
City of
March2, 2023
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE:
SECTION:
Regular
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
January 5, 2023
Minutes of the January 5, 2023, Apple Valley Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee.
PRESENT: Parks and Recreation Advisory CommitteeChair Brent Schulz; Committee
Members Lisa Hiebert, Matthew Hinrichs, Noel Hammill, and Craig Long; Parks and
Recreation Director Eric Carlson; Parks SuperintendentMike Endres; Facilities Coordinator
Brian Christianson, Golf Course Manager Jim Zinck, and Administrative Coordinator Kayla
Hechsel.
ABSENT: Committee Members Dave Freed and Mark Schori
ITEM 1. Call to Order
Chair Schulz called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Everyone took part in the Pledge of
Allegiance.
ITEM 2. Approval of Agenda
MOTION: by Hinrichs, seconded by Long, approving the agenda without
Item 4, Approval of Minutes, as there are no minutes to approve
for this meeting.
VOTE: Yes – 5, No – 0
ITEM 3. Audience – 10 Minutes Total Time Limit – For Items Not on the Agenda
No one present to speak.
ITEM 4. Approval of Minutes.
The Committee will approve minutes for the November 3, 2022, and January 5, 2023,
meetings at the March 2, 2023, meeting.
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
January 5, 2023
ITEM 5.A. Agenda Items – Schedule Joint Meeting with City Council on Thursday, January 12,
2023
Staff requested to schedule a joint meeting with the City Council on Thursday, January 12,
2023, to discuss the next steps of the potential parks bond referendum process.
MOTION: by Hammill, seconded by Hiebert, to schedule a joint meeting with
the City Council on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
VOTE: Yes – 5, No – 0
ITEM 6. Agenda Items – 2023 Meeting Schedule
In light of the potential upcoming park bond referendum, staff anticipates there will be
pertinent and important information for the Committee to review, and staff therefore requests
setting a monthly meeting schedule for 2023. The understanding is that unnecessary meetings
will be cancelled.
MOTION: by Hammill, seconded by Schori, to approve the 2023 meeting
schedule – January 5, February 2, March 2, April 6, May 4, June 1,
July 20, August 3, September 7, October 5, November 2, and
December 7, 2023.
VOTE: Yes – 6, No – 0
ITEM 7. Agenda Items – Administrative Presentations
Parks Superintendent Endres went through his presentation provided in the agenda packet,
highlighting that weather conditions are preventing flooding operations and staff levels are
low, meaning we cannot open as many rinks and warming houses as we have in the past.
Chair Schulz asked if staff have heard complaints that the Huntington off-leash dog park has
been converted to an ice rink. Parks Superintendent Endres said we have not heard
complaints since the change of the season.
Golf Course Manager Zinck briefly summarized the 2022 Valleywood season: the Youth on
Course program has ended, but an extremely economical junior season pass has helped make
up for the loss of that program. Total number of rounds are slightly down, but revenue per
round is up significantly. Golf outing events aren’t as popular anymore, but other events have
skyrocketed at Valleywood. The irrigation project will begin in July 2023 and go into the
fall, so Valleywood anticipates fewer rounds playing in the later season as a result. The
seasonal jobs will be posted at the end of January, and a few weeks later, the new website
will launch.
- 2 of 3 -
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS AND RECREATION
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
January 5, 2023
Director Carlson provided general information on Mid-Winter Fest, highlighting the
activities and entertainment that will take place.
Parks Superintendent Endres led the discussion on whether we should honor a resident’s
request to donate a memorial disc golf basket to Apple Ponds Park, which does not have a
disc golf course. After much discussion, the Committee directed staff to provide the resident
options for a memorial tree or bench at Apple Ponds Park or a memorial disc golf basket at
Alimagnet Park.
Facilities Coordinator Christianson gave a run down of arena activity: Heaters went out at
Hayes and are being replaced. Learn to Skate continues, and January is very busy with high
school hockey games. Committee Member Long complimented the City on the Learn to
Skate program and asked for more open skating times. Facilities Coordinator Christianson
explained that the other times we’ve offered for open skating haven’t been utilized by the
public enough to justify the cost.
ITEM 8. Agenda Items – Committee / Staff Communications
No other items were discussed.
ITEM 9. Adjourn
There being no further business, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee meeting was
adjourned.
MOTION: by Hinrichs, seconded by Hiebert, to adjourn the meeting at 8:01
p.m.
VOTE: Yes – 5, No – 0
Respectfully Submitted,
Kayla Hechsel, Administrative Coordinator
Approved by the Apple Valley Parks
and Recreation Advisory Committee Brent Schulz, Chair
on March 2, 2023.
- 3 of 3 -
ITEM:
6.A.
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY
City of
March 2, 2023
COMMITTEEMEETING DATE:
SECTION:
Regular
ITEM DESCRIPTION:
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee’s Annual Report
STAFF CONTACT: DEPARTMENT/DIVISION:
Kayla Hechsel, Admin CoordinatorParks and Recreation Department
Action Requested:
Motion to approvethe Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee’s 2022year-end report.
Summary:
By City ordinance, the Committee is required to provide an annual report to Council. A staff-prepared Parks &
Recreation Advisory Committee’s 2022year-end report is provided for your review.
Background:
Chapter 21 of the City Ordinances outlines establishment, membership and terms of the City’s advisory
committees. Section 32.03 of the Chapter directs that on or before April 1 of each year, the Committee shall submit
to the Council a report of its work during the preceding year. To that end, the Parks & Recreation Advisory
Committee’s 2022 year-end report is provided for your approval prior to its submission to Council.
ATTACHMENTS:
2022 year-end report
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
2022Year-End Report
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
2022 Year-End Report
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
2022Year-End Report
Parks & Recreation Advisory
Committee
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) is an
appointed committee of volunteer citizens. The purpose of the
PRAC is to advise and make recommendations to City Council
concerning parks, recreation, open space, and trail issues. In
addition, the PRAC provides input to City staff, acting as an
advisory board on community interests concerning recreation
and parks.
The PRAC consists of seven (7) members. Members are
appointed by the City Council for three (3) year terms. The
Chairperson and Secretary are elected annually by the
committee members at an “organizational meeting” typically
held in March.
PAGE 2
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
2022 Year-End Report
2022 COMMITTEE MEMBERS
TERM BEGAN TERM ENDS
Dave Freed 20202024
Noel Hammill 20132025
Lisa Hiebert (Secretary) 20192023
Matthew Hinrichs 20172023
Craig Long 20222025
Mark Schori 20192025
Brenton Schulz (Chair) 20102024
MEMBERS’ ROLE
The PRAC’s work covers a broad range of issues that must be acted upon in a timely manner.
Occasionally, the formation of a “task force” or “study group” becomes necessary to look into or
work further on more complex issues. Participation in these groups is voluntary.
PARK DEDICATION
The City has enacted an ordinance under Minnesota law that grants a community the authority
to receive land or cash, in lieu of land, for purposes of parks from residential and
commercial/industrial developers. This dedication is set depending on the size of the proposed
development and whether it is a residential or commercial/industrial development. If the
amount of land is not sufficient to support a park, a cash dedication is accepted. The amount of
the cash dedication is based on the type of residential or commercial/industrial unit. The
Committee annually reviews dedication funds. The cash collected goes into a fund for purchase
and/or development of parks throughout the City.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN GUIDE
Required by the Metropolitan Council, the City maintains a “Comprehensive Guide Plan” for the
City. Neighborhood service areas are defined to help determine park needs for each portion of
the City. A complete copy of the Plan is available on the City’s website at
www.applevalleymn.gov.
2022 MEETINGS
Meetings were held January 6, February 8, March 3, April 7, July 21 (park tour), August 4, September 2,
and November 3. Regular meetings were held in the Municipal Center’s Council Chambers and video
broadcast on Charter Communication Cable Channel 180 starting at 7:00 p.m. Recordings of Regular
meetings were also made available on YouTube. Informal meetings were held at 6:00 p.m. in a Municipal
Center conference room prior to each Regular meeting.
Items of Discussion Included:
Park Bond Referendum
Facilities master plans
Eastview Soccer AED donation
Park sign master plan
EV charging stations Repurposing of Hayes pickleball courts
Bus tour of the park system Hockey rink off-leash dog parks
Department staff changes Valleywood improvements
Park master plans Division updates
PAGE 3
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
2022 Year-End Report
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
The City is fortunate to have a number of citizens who step forward and volunteer to help in the
community. One prime example can be found on our various advisory committees and commissions
where we currently have over 40 active citizens dedicating their time and their talents to the betterment
of our community. National Volunteer Recognition Week was observed April 17-23, 2022, and the City
extended thanks to all our volunteers. In addition to our City committee/commission volunteer members,
the Parks & Recreation department was extremely fortunate to have 872 individuals volunteer over 3,000
hours in our parks system in 2022. We are grateful for their dedication to keeping our parks clean and
beautiful.
JULY BUS TOUR OF THE PARK SYSTEM
Through many discussions throughout the year about a potential parks bond referendum, PRAC
members and staff determined that master plans would be created for four main City parks:
Alimagnet, Farquar, Kelley, and Redwood. To gauge improvement needs and generate design
ideas, PRAC members and staff participated in a July 21, 2022, guided tour of each of the four
parks.
POTENTIAL PARKS BOND REFERENDUM
Without a doubt, the most significant project the PRAC worked on in 2022 was engaging residents in what
the community wants the parks and recreational facilities to look like in the future. The PRAC held several
open houses, design charettes, and an online social pinpoint site, which were all designed to gather
feedback from the community. PRAC members and City staff developed multiple concept plans for our
recreational facilities and four parks (Alimagnet, Farquar, Kelley, and Redwood) based on resident
feedback, and then, after gathering even more feedback, they developed final concept plans for each
potential project.
PAGE 4
ITEM:
6.B.
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY
City of
March 2, 2023
COMMITTEE MEETING DATE:
SECTION:
Regular
ITEM DESCRIPTION:
Division Updates
STAFF CONTACT: DEPARTMENT/DIVISION:
Eric Carlson,Director Parks and Recreation Department
Action Requested
N/A – informational item
Summary
Included in the agenda packet, you will find a copy of the 2022 Parks and Recreation Department
Year-End Report. This is provided for informational purposes. During the regular meeting, staff
will give oral presentations updating the Committee on the stateof their respective Divisions.
Background
The 2022 Department Year-End Report is presented in written form. For this meeting, the
division updates will be presented orally. If a committee member wishes for additional details
regarding a specific area,please feel free to discuss during the agenda item or contact me at
eric.carlson@applevalleymn.gov or (952) 953-2310.
Parks & Recreation
Department
Parks&Recreation
2022Year-End Report
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
DEMOGRAPHICS APPLE VALLEY
Met Council –2022
Population 56,374
Households 21,536
Employment 14,893
Household Size 2.58
Median Household Income $91,900
Average Wage $48,820
Race & Ethnicity (rounded)
White 71%
Asian 6%
Hispanic 7%
Black 10%
Other 6%
APPLE
AVERAGE BURNSVILLE EAGAN LAKEVILLE ROSEMOUNT
BENCHMARK DATA VALLEY
City Population Estimate 57,07856,374 64,317 68,885 69,490 25,650
Square Miles 33 18 2733 38 35
Number of City Parks 58 51 7660 66 30
Miles of Concrete 59 1454037 98 62
Sidewalk
Miles of Bituminous 84 74 57112125 42
Trails
Number of City Park 1,064 7011,106 1,396 1,211 542
Acres (not incl golf
course)
Number of City Park 1,069 8911,127 1,396 1,211 542
Acres (incl golf course)
Park Acres per 1,000 19.01 12.43 17.20 20.27 17.43 21.13
population (not incl golf
course)
Park Acres per 1,000 19.09 15.81 17.52 20.27 17.43 21.13
population (incl golf
course)
Residents per Square 1,875 3,316 2,573 2,221 1,930 777
Mile
Parks per 1,000 1.040.9 1.18 0.870.95 1.17
Population
PAGE 2
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEE INFORMATION
FULL TIME EQUIVALENTS PARKS & FULL TIME/PART SEASONAL
TOTAL
RECREATION DEPT.TIME BENEFITTEDNON-BENEFITTED
Parks & Recreation Administration 7.90-7.90
Park Maintenance 17.004.7321.73
Recreation Programs 01.581.58
Apple Valley Community Center 1.002.962.96
Apple Valley Senior Center 3.140.493.63
Aquatics 014.9814.98
Valleywood Golf Course 4.0011.7815.78
Arenas 2.003.275.27
Total FTEs 35.0439.7974.83
Number of People 37.00400 +/-
PAGE 3
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Welcome to the City of Apple Valley’s Parks & Recreation Department 2022 Annual
Report
The City of Apple Valley’s Parks & Recreation Department strives to promote passive and active parks,
trails, and recreation programs that enrich the lives of all residents. Our staff takes great pride in
offering quality programs and maintaining safe and enjoyable parks and recreational facilities. I continue
to be very proud of all our staff who are creative, hardworking individualswhoreally try to offer
exceptional services to our residents.
After a few years of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to offer many of our programs
and activities in 2022. Hereare just a few highlights:
Apple Valley Senior Center had a membership of 857 seniors and 20,400 visits.
Apple Valley Sports Arena and Hayes Park Arena were able to provide indoor skating and hockey
opportunities to the community, selling 3,100 hours of ice time.
In February, the community enjoyed Mid-Winter Fest with music, food/beverage, and fireworks.
October brought 2,000 kids and their families to Trunk-or-Treat.
Our Aquatics facilities were opened, and we saw another great weather year with a total of
72,000 swimmers between the Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center and Redwood.
The Apple Valley Arts Foundation provided Music in Kelley Park on Friday evenings in June, July,
and August.
Valleywood Golf Course continued to provide an excellent outlet for those that enjoy golf by
hosting 34,500 rounds of golf and 29 large events.
The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) engaged the community to find out what
residents want the future of our parks and recreation system to be. Based on their work, the
City is exploring apotential Parks Bond Referendum for November of 2023 to ensure that we
continue to have safe and well-maintained park and recreation facilities, equipment, programs,
outdoor park space, and amenities.
In today's hectic world, it's easy to forget that taking time to enjoy each day is so important to our
health and well-being. The Apple Valley Parks & Recreation team is committed to ensuring that every
resident has an opportunity to experience outstanding recreational activities and park facilities that
enhance their quality of life by helping them stay healthy and fit, build relationships with family and
friends, and develop a sense of community pride.
It is our privilege to serve the citizens of Apple Valley.
Sincerely,
Eric Carlson
Parks & Recreation Director
City of Apple Valley
PAGE 4
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) is an appointed committee
of volunteer citizens. The purpose of the PRAC is to advise and make
recommendations to City Council concerning parks, recreation, open space, and
trail issues. In addition, the PRAC provides input to City staff, acting as an
advisory board on community interests concerning recreation and parks.
The PRAC consists of seven (7) members. Members are appointed by the City
Council for three (3) year terms. The Chairperson and Secretary are elected
annually by the committee members at an “organizational meeting” typically
held in March.
PAGE 5
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
2022 COMMITTEE MEMBERS
TERM BEGAN TERM ENDS
Dave Freed 20202024
Noel Hammill 20132025
Lisa Hiebert (Secretary) 20192023
Matthew Hinrichs 20172023
Craig Long 20222025
Mark Schori 20192025
Brenton Schulz (Chair) 20102024
MEMBERS’ ROLE
The PRAC’s work covers a broad range of issues that must be acted upon in a timely manner. Occasionally,
the formation of a “task force” or “study group” becomes necessary to look into or work further on more
complex issues. Participation in these groups is voluntary.
PARK DEDICATION
The City has enacted an ordinance under Minnesota law that grants a community the authority to receive
land or cash, in lieu of land, for purposes of parks from residential and commercial/industrial developers.
This dedication is set depending on the size of the proposed development and whether it is a residential
or commercial/industrial development. If the amount of land is not sufficient to support a park, a cash
dedication is accepted. The amount of the cash dedication is based on the type of residential or
commercial/industrial unit. The Committee annually reviews dedication funds. The cash collected goes
into a fund for purchase and/or development of parks throughout the City.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN GUIDE
Required by the Metropolitan Council, the City maintains a “Comprehensive Guide Plan” for the City.
Neighborhood service areas are defined to help determine park needs for each portion of the City. A
complete copy of the Plan is available on the City’s website at www.applevalleymn.gov.
2022 MEETINGS
Meetings were held January 6, February 8, March 3, April 7, July 21 (park tour), August 4, September 2,
and November 3. Regular meetings were held in the Municipal Center’s Council Chambers and video
broadcast on Charter Communication Cable Channel 180 starting at 7:00 p.m. Recordings of Regular
meetings were also made available on YouTube. Informal meetings were held at 6:00 p.m. in a Municipal
Center conference room prior to each Regular meeting.
Items of Discussion Included:
Park Bond Referendum
Facilities master plans
Eastview Soccer AED donation Park sign master plan
EV charging stations Repurposing of Hayes pickleball courts
Bus tour of the park system Hockey rink off-leash dog parks
Department staff changes Valleywood improvements
Park master plans Division updates
PAGE 6
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
The City is fortunate to have a number of citizens who step forward and volunteer to help in the
community. One prime example can be found on our various advisory committees and commissions
where we currently have over 40 active citizens dedicating their time and their talents to the betterment
of our community. National Volunteer Recognition Week was observed April 17-23, 2022, and the City
extended thanks to all our volunteers. In addition to our City committee/commission volunteer members,
the Parks & Recreation department was extremely fortunate to have 872 individuals volunteer over 3,000
hours in our parks system in 2022. We are grateful for their dedication to keeping our parks clean and
beautiful.
JULY BUS TOUR OF THE PARK SYSTEM
Through many discussions throughout the year about a potential parks bond referendum, PRAC members
and staff determined that master plans would be created for four main City parks: Alimagnet, Farquar,
Kelley, and Redwood. To gauge improvement needs and generate design ideas, PRAC members and staff
participated in a July 21, 2022, guided tour of each of the four parks.
POTENTIAL PARKS BOND REFERENDUM
Without a doubt, the most significant project the PRAC worked on in 2022 was engaging residents in what
the community wants the parks and recreational facilities to look like in the future. The PRAC held several
open houses, design charettes, and an online social pinpoint site, which were all designed to gather
feedback from the community. PRAC members and City staff developed multiple concept plans for our
recreational facilities and four parks (Alimagnet, Farquar, Kelley, and Redwood) based on resident
feedback, and then, after gathering even more feedback, they developed final concept plans for each
potential project.
PAGE 7
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Special Events
Apple Valley Parks & Recreation hosts special events throughout the
year to bring the community together in celebration. The two
primary events held every year are Mid-Winter Fest in February and
Freedom Days in July.
This year’s events also included the annual South of the River
nd
Recreators (S.O.R.R.) Who Done It Hike in September, and the 2
annual Trunk or Treat, which was held in the parking lot of the Apple
Valley Family Aquatic Center in October.
PAGE 8
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
MID-WINTER FEST (Saturday, Feb. 4)
In 2022, Mid-Winter Fest moved from Hayes Park to
Johnny Cake Ridge Park West, and the event was fully
outdoors. Despite the frigid weather and the brisk wind,
all events took place as scheduled. Attendees played
bean bags and disc golf, flew kites, skated, and rode in
garden carts pulled by the Police Department’s UTV. An
estimated 300 Mites skaters participated in the annual
Mid-Winter Fest Hockey Jamboree, which was run by
our community hockey associations. The Johnny Cake
Activity Center was open for participants to warm up
and purchase hot chocolate and hot cider from the
Rotary Club of Apple Valley. Propane heaters, fire pits,
and a warming bus provided by MN Valley Transit
Authority were also available to give guests a break
from the cold. At 5 p.m., the Riverside Hitmen put on an
outstanding outdoor concert, and the evening
concluded with a brilliant fireworks show. Thank you to
our sponsors—the Apple Valley Arts Foundation, Apple
Valley Hockey Association, Eastview Hockey
Association, the Rotary Club of Apple Valley, and Apple
Valley Eye Care—for their generous contributions. We
had a great event and look forward to growing the
celebration next year!
FREEDOM DAYS (Friday, July 1–Monday, July 4)
The annual July Fourth celebration, Freedom Days, has
been coordinated by a committee of volunteers for many
years. The Parks & Recreation Department hosted the
annual two and five mile Fun Runs, which were held the
morning of Monday, July 4. A total of 211 people
participated in the races, ranging from age 7 to 81. Despite
the morning’s rain slowing the runners’ times, many said
they appreciated the cooler overcast conditions for an
event that usually takes place in very hot weather.
WHO DONE IT HIKE (Saturday, Sept. 10)
This annual family event is held at Ritter Family Park
in Lakeville, and it is hosted by the South of the River
Recreators (S.O.R.R.), a collaborative networking
group that consists of Parks & Recreation staff from
Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Lakeville,
Rosemount, and Savage. An estimated 180 people
(and 20 dogs) searched for five clues along two miles
of trail in this Clue-style mystery hike. Once all clues
were found, participants guessed which of the six
possible suspects was guilty. Families who guessed
correctly were entered into prize drawings.
PAGE 9
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
TRUNK OR TREAT (Saturday, Oct. 29)
The Apple Valley Police and Parks & Recreation Departments teamed up again to host the second Trunk
or Treat Halloween event. The event took place in the Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center parking lot from
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For the second year in a row, the weather was perfect and attendance was high;
approximately 2,000 kids participated, and they were all dressed in their Halloween costumes! A total of
30 Trunk or Treat contributors—including several City departments, Dakota County, local businesses, and
community organization—provided candy, snacks, games, puppet shows, music, and arts & crafts
activities.
Trunk or Treat – Saturday, October 29
PAGE 10
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Park Maintenance
In 2022, the Park Maintenance Division maintained more than 680
acres of parkland on a daily basis. These efforts ensured our
facilities, athletic fields, trails, and playgrounds remained clean,
safe, and playable. A few of the projects completed in 2022
included:
Installation of new deck boards on both walking bridges at
Cedar Isles
Installation of shaded in-ground tables at the Johnny Cake
Ridge Park West pickleball courts
Ballfield renovations at Legion Field and Hayes Field #7
Coordination of volunteerand Boy Scout projects
GIS mapping of all signs in the park system
Inventory of Emerald Ash Borer infected trees
Creation of two off-leash dog parks in the hockey rinks at
Huntington and Delaney parks
Installation of new dock at Farquar Lake
PAGE 11
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
20182019202020212022
Parks Adopted 2728 30 35 44
Park Shelter Reservations 9413067100162
Field Reservations $80,345$68,063 $61,600 $129,887$104,131
Miles of Plowable Paths 8080 80 80 80
Playground Structures 5353535353
Parking lots 3232 32 32 32
Due to increased requests, two off-leash dog parks were created at Huntington and Delaney Parks using
the existing hockey rinks. Gates like the one shown above were installed to ensure unleashed dogs
remain safely in the boarded area while other patrons and their dogs enter and exit the park.
New sign planter at Summerfield Park completed by an Eagle Scout
PAGE 12
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
New bridge deck boards at Cedar Isles
New picnic tables with attached permanent shade structures were installed at the new pickleball courts
at Johnny Cake Ridge Park West.
PAGE 13
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
A new dock was installed at Farquar Lake in conjunction with the State of MN.
Invasive species removal around Cobblestone Lake done with the help of the Wings Financial Volunteer
Group.
PAGE 14
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Arenas
This year was successful for both arenas. The Sports Arena had a
great ice season, and in the dry floor season, it hosted the Apple
Valley High School’s boys’ and girls’ tennis teams, two craft sales,
and a week-long consignment sale.
At Hayes Arena, 2022 was the first year of year-round ice. In
previous years, ice was taken out in mid-March and turf was in
place through May. Our first year with year-round ice was
successful, and we look forward to increasing ice use even more
in the years to come. Hayes Arena also saw many updates in
2022. The radiant heating and rubber flooring in the public areas
was replaced, and the exterior landscaping was updated.
PAGE 15
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
SPORTS ARENA2018 201920202021 2022
Hours of Ice Time Rented 1,057 1,113908954 1,178
Hours of Ice Time per JPA 428458347456565
Learn-to-Skate Participants 337 342 240380 470
Dry Floor Hours Rented 125 130 70 110 105
Dry Floor Time Used per JPA 235215115220233
Updated landscaping at Hayes Arena
HAYES ARENA 20182019 202020212022
Hours of Ice Time Rented 1,520 1,6301,180 1,478 1,914
Dry Floor Hours Rented 320305 - 165 -
Rubber flooring replacement at Hayes Arena
PAGE 16
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Valleywood
In 2022, Valleywoodcontinued to benefit from the recent golf
boom, and we have had great success in rebuilding the event and
rental business. While overall rounds of golf were down (which
we can attribute to the modification of the Youth on Course
restrictions), revenue forthe year was at an all-time high.
Virtually all leagues have filled back up—there were very few
spaces available in all our public leagues.
PAGE 17
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
STRATEGIC BUSINESS PLAN
To address some of the financial and operational issues Valleywood has experienced in the past, the
Valleywood Golf Course Task Force created the 2022–2031 Strategic Business Plan, which the City
Council adopted in July 2021. In 2022, Valleywood adhered tothe priorities outlined in the Strategic
Business Plan, and the following effects were noticed:
Operating the food and beverage service using a “deli” model worked well, and the in-house
staff excelled in their second year with more efficient processes and a slightly expanded menu
We have had great success using various caterers for outside events, and the event hosts really
appreciate the ability to bring in a caterer of their own choosing for their event
The growth of our event business is currently outpacing our stated goals from the Business Plan
Revenue per round increased by more than $4 per round
The Strategic Business Plan also included some large improvement projects, and good progress was
made in 2022. About 90% of the tree removal needed for the upcoming 2023 irrigation replacement
project was completed in the winter of 2021-2022, and new monument signs were installed by the front
gate and on the south side of the course facing Pilot Knob Road.
VALLEYWOOD GOLF COURSE20182019202020212022
Patron Card Holders 6763214186
Senior Patron Card Holders 293324184284274
Members – Women’s 18-Hole League 8590929393
Members – Women’s 9-Hole League 128132116136143
Members -Men’s League 13013072104136
Members - Senior League 10710996110105
Number of Rounds Played 27,61628,84132,91038,95934,465
Large Driving Range Buckets Sold 4,3104,4956,8747,0038,705
Medium Driving Range Buckets Sold 1,6811,9941,8462,8252,680
18-Hole Cart Rentals 9,7148,55511,87714,39113,514
9-Hole Cart Rentals 4,8875,9785,9077,6818,766
PAGE 18
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
EVENTS
In 2022, Valleywood hosted a variety of events, including:
14 golf tournaments for various organizations and companies
Ladies’ nights
Live music concerts on the patio
Wine tastings
Food and wine pairing events
Craft sales
Celebrations of life
Weddings
Retirement parties
Fashion shows
Engagement parties
Birthday parties
Banquets
PAGE 19
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Apple Valley Senior & Event Center
The Apple Valley Senior & Event Center is a 21,000 square foot facility
that provides space for senior recreation during week days and meeting
or banquet space available for rent in the evenings and on weekends.
In the 2021-2022 fiscal year, there were 757members of the Apple
Valley Seniors Organization. Presently, there are 860 members in the
2022-2023 fiscal year, which is up 103 members from the past year.
Senior programming focuses on education, recreation, arts & crafts,
exercise, entertainment, games, and day trips. Some of the new
programs, activities, and presentations that were offered in 2022
included ceramics classes, Tai Chi, water exercise, Xa Beatclasses,
Medicare presentations, drumming classes, and history presentations.
PAGE 20
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
APPLE VALLEY SENIORS ORGANIZATION
The Apple Valley Senior & Event Center is home to the Apple Valley Seniors organization. The Seniors
organization is led by a volunteer executive committee, which consists of a president, vice president,
treasurer, assistant treasurer, secretary, and member-at-large. Other Senior volunteer committees
include Education and Service, Finance, Historians, Membership, and Lettuce Do Lunch. Adults aged 55
and above are eligible to become a member of the Apple Valley Seniors organization. The benefits of
membership include:
Receipt of the monthly newsletter
Discounts on some activities
A new member orientation and tour of the Apple Valley Senior & Event Center
Eligibility to participate in bingo, movies, and the donated bread program
Free coffee, tea, and cappuccino
MINNESOTA CITYNUMBER OF
MEMBERS STATE NUMBER OF
MEMBERS
Apple Valley 529
Florida 1
Burnsville 108
Missouri 1
Lakeville 72
New York 1
Rosemount 41
Apple Valley Seniors contributed 1,487
Eagan 35
volunteer hours to the Apple Valley Senior
Farmington 21
Center in 2022 as compared to 1,212 hours in
2021.
Bloomington 8
Prior Lake 8
SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITY
PARTICIPANTS BY MONTH
Savage 7
Prescott, WI 4 January 1,499
Richfield 3 February 1,639
Woodbury 3 March 1,938
Crystal 2 April 2,087
Edina 2
May 1,980
Inver Grove Heights 2 June 1,891
Lake Elmo 2
July 1,792
St. Paul 2
August 1,346
Brainerd 1
September 1,425
Eden Prairie 1
October 1,863
Forest Lake 1
November 1,591
Hastings 1
December 1,354
Mendota Heights 1 2022 Total 20,435
Milaca 1
Currently 519 Gazettes are mailed and 198
Shakopee 1
Gazettes are emailed each month
South St. Paul 1
PAGE 21
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
REGULARLY SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES AT THE SENIOR CENTER
Bicycle Groups Day Trips Knitting & Crocheting
Billiards (Men’s & Ladies)Discover Science Group Line Dancing
Bingo DominoesMorning Stretch Exercise
Book Clubs Driver Improvement Courses Quilting Bees
ChessDrummingPainters
Card GamesFeed My Starving ChildrenRe-Created Cards
Catered LunchGather Around the Music JamStitchers
Coffee Gentle YogaTable Tennis
Color & Chat Coloring GroupHardangerWii Bowling
RENTAL GROUPS
The Apple Valley Senior & Event Center is the ideal location for celebrations, events, banquets, and
meetings. Groups as small as five and as large as 216 will find the facility a welcoming place to host their
event. In 2022, there were 195 rentals for a total of 738.75 rented hours. These numbers include both
internal room reservations and rentals by external groups.
2022 RENTALS NO. OF RENTALS RENTAL HOURS
1 Section of Yellowstone Room 95 310 hours reserved
2 Sections of Yellowstone Room 13 75 hours reserved
Full Yellowstone Room (3 Sections) 17 156 hours reserved
Glacier Room 25 72 hours reserved
Yosemite Room 45 126 hours reserved
Total 195 739 hours reserved
FACILITY PROJECTS & UPGRADES
The Apple Valley Senior & Event Center went through several upgrades in 2022, which included:
Upgraded the HVAC communications system
Hired Humeratech to perform scheduled preventative maintenance in the fall and spring
seasons
Upgraded audio visual equipment in the Yosemite Room and made the touch screen panel
handicap accessible
Replaced fire panel and removed all ceiling smoke detectors
Added a laptop computer and set up a self-check-in station for the seniors at the front desk
PAGE 22
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Aquatics Program
The Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center opened in June 1999. The lazy
river was added in 2009, and the Barry Bernstein Sprayground was
dedicated in 2021. The maximum capacity of the facility is 1,600 and
is available for exclusive-use rentals outside the regular operating
hours.
Opened in 1965, the Redwood Outdoor Pool has been a staple in
Apple Valley for 58 years, and it has been providing swimming lessons
to community members since it was built. The pool has a maximum
capacity of 300 and is available fordaily open swim sessions as well
as exclusive-use rentals.
PAGE 23
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
APPLE VALLEY FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER
The 2022 season at the Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center was pleasant and eventful, with no significant
injuries to patrons or staff. Facilities opened for the season on June 9 and closed on August 28, spanning
81 days. The daily entry fee was $12, and discount entries were available to both residents and non-
residents who purchased ten-entry admission cards. In the 2021 season, operating hours at the Family
Aquatic Center were reduced by 12 hours per week to accommodate extreme staffing shortages, and
because the staffing shortage persisted, the shortened hours remained in effect in 2022.
FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER 201820192020 20212022
Open Swim Attendance 63,33249,155-53,95064,719
Water Walkers/Lap Swim 5,5055,091 - 8,7707,323
Group Reservations 160 151- 34
Days Open 6668-7970
Days Closed 1313 - 311
Average Daily Attendance 960 723- 683 925
REDWOOD OUTDOOR POOL
In 2022, the Redwood Outdoor Pool’s season spanned 80 days and was open from June 9 through August
27. The daily open swim hours were 12:30–4:30 p.m., general admission was $5, and discount entries
were available to both residents and non-residents who purchased ten-entry admission cards.
REDWOOD OUTDOOR POOL 20182019202020212022
Open Swim Attendance 4,7563,366 - 5,021 7,242
Swim Lesson Participants 310 238- 240 582
Private Pool Reservations 4049 - 77 74
Days Open 5465 - 67 72
Days Closed 85- 12 7
Average Daily Attendance 8852 - 75 101
PAGE 24
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Adult Athletics
The City offers adult leagues in the following sports: volleyball,
bean bags, softball, basketball, and kickball. In 2022, we
continued to see growth in our adult athletics leagues since
they were affected by the pandemic in 2020.
When fields are not in use by our programs, they are rented
out to private groups and clubs. Field rentals were heavy again
in 2022, bringing in $104,131.
PAGE 25
Parks & Recreation Department
2022Year-End Report
VOLLEYBALL LEAGUES
Adult Volleyball Registrations
2022 was a banner year for the adult
400
volleyball program with 337 total volleyball
337
teams participating in leagues and the
350
304
tournament, up 62% from 2021. Apple
286
300
Valley offers adult volleyball leagues year-
250
208
round as well as a tournament during Mid-
200
168
Winter Fest. Indoor leagues at the Apple
Valley Community Center include women’s
150
officiated, women’s self-officiated, men’s
100
self-officiated, and co-rec self-officiated
50
play. Summer outdoor sand volleyball
0
leagues are also offered at Johnny Cake
20182019202020212022
Ridge Athletic Complex.
BEAN BAG TOSS LEAGUES
Adult Bean Bags Registrations
Bean bags leagues continue to be the
149
160
department’s fastest growing adult
league. Indoor bean bag toss leagues are
140
offered in the fall and winter seasons at
120
the Apple Valley Community Center and
100
leagues moved outdoors to Johnny Cake
70
80
63
Ridge Park East and also expanded to
60
include Valleywood Golf Course during the
32
40
summer season. The league grew by leaps
and bounds with 149 teams participating,
20
up 119% from 2021.
0
2019202020212022
SOFTBALL LEAGUES
Apple Valley has the secondlargest adult
Adult Softball Registrations
softball program in the south metro with
148
160
140
115 team participating in the summer and
129
140
fall seasons. Softball team registrationsare
115
120
continuing to decline state-wide,and we
100
saw that in our league as well with an 11%
77
80
decline from 2021.
60
While team numbers and associated league
40
registration revenue has dropped, much of
20
that revenue has been replaced by renting
0
fields to private groups and baseball clubs
20182019202020212022
who are happy to have available fields.
PAGE 26
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
Recreation Program
Recreation Programs consist of preschool, youth, and family
activities such as Little Orchardclasses, Bowl with Santa,
Freedom Days Fun Run, Playground Program, and Puppet
Wagon performances. Contracted programs like Music
Together, Skyhawks Sports Camps, and Science Explorers also
fall under this category.
PAGE 27
Parks & Recreation Department
2022 Year-End Report
OUTDOOR SKATING RINKS
Skating rinks in the City parks are available for skating from dawn to dusk daily, weather permitting. At
staffed warming houses, skaters are counted regularly throughout the day (see table below for skater
count). Warming houses are staffed weeknights after school, weekends, and school holidays. The
Community Center warming house is available during regular operating hours seven days a week. Due to
extreme staffing shortages in 2022, we were unfortunately not able to open the warming houses at
Hagemeister and Valley Middle Parks.
20182019202020212022
WARMING HOUSES
Johnny Cake Activity Center 581 1,298 - 626 3,020
Galaxie Park 1,0281,056 - 695 1,042
Huntington Park 254 94 - 116 208
Apple Valley Community Ctr 649 391- 347 -
Apple Valley East 499 414- 304 1,161
Hagemeister Park 202 103- 102 No staff
Valley MiddlePark 207 64 - 60 No staff
PRESCHOOL, PLAYGROUNDS, AND PUPPETS
In 2022, we started offering a larger variety of preschool classes because people are looking for more
daytime preschool classes post-COVID. We continued to have great success with our Little Orchard
Preschool, and we look forward to seeing that program grow. Please note that the numbers in the table
below represent the number of participants, not the number of classes.
20182019202020212022
PRESCHOOL & FAMILY
School-Year Preschool
352 271 93 179 266
Programs
Summer Preschool Programs 211 2056104 190
Family Classes-
8678 69
-
Due to recent popularity, we added even more day camp opportunities for youth in 2022 in addition to
our standard playground program. We successfully ran eight weeks of school-aged camp programs this
summer. Unfortunately due to lack of staffing, we were unable to run the puppet wagon program in 2022.
We hope that we can find quality staff to bring the puppet wagon back in 2023.
RECREATION PROGRAMS20192020 20212022
554 133329 241
Playground Participants
5 parks/6 wks 3 parks/4 wks 3 parks/7 wks 2 parks/6 wks
Freedom Days Fun Run
381 - 216
Participants
Puppet Wagon Attendance 3,4031,853 3,502
*54
Preschool Classes Offered 235 176144
85 – 3 camps
Full-Day Camp Participants 154 -3 camps 28 - 2 camps 79 -3 camps
107 – 5 camps
Half-Day Camp Participants - - 52 -2 camps
*Because our Little Orchard Preschool program is three days per week, our number of additional
preschool classes offered decreased.
PAGE 28
Parks & Recreation Department
2022Year-End Report
Thank you to City Council and the citizens of Apple Valley for continued
support of the Parks & Recreation Department in our effortsto provide
opportunities for outstanding recreational quality-of-life experiences.
PAGE 29