2024.01.03 PRC Packet AGENDA
January 3, 2024
Crystal Community Center – 4800 Douglas Drive North, Crystal MN, 55429
7:00 pm Regular Meeting Agenda
1. Call the Meeting to Order / Introductions
2. Election of Officers
3. Public Comments
4. Approval of Minutes
5. Chairperson’s Report
6. Commission Business / Discussion (45 minutes)
a. 2024 meeting dates and locations
b. 2023 and 2024 work plans
c. 2024 planning & project discussion
d. Park System Master Plan overview
7. Commission Open Forum (10 minutes)
8. Commission Reports (15 minutes)
a. City Council Report
b. Project/Maintenance Report
c. Program Report
d. Director Report
9. Community Reports (10 minutes)
a. Community Activity/Event Reports
• Crystal Frolics Report
• Crystal Fund Report
b. Citizen Contacts
c. Other Community News Items
10. Adjournment
Next meeting date: February 7, 2024 – Crystal Community Center
MEETING OVERVIEW
January 3, 2024
Crystal Community Center – 4800 Douglas Drive North, Crystal MN, 55429
Contact John Elholm – john.elholm@crystalmn.gov or 763-531-1150 if you cannot attend.
REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING – 7:00 PM
1. Call the Meeting to Order and Introductions
Jesse McCaffrey will call the meeting to order
2. Election of Officers
3. Public Comments
Citizens may bring items of concern related to parks and recreation to the attention of
the commission. Speaking time may be limited and no action will be taken.
4. Approval of Minutes – December 6, 2023
5. Chairperson’s Report
6. Commission Business / Discussion
John Elholm: Introduce Business Items
a. 2024 meeting dates and locations
b. 2023 and 2024 work plans
c. 2024 planning & project discussion
d. Park System Master Plan overview
7. Commission Open Forum
A time for commission members to share their thoughts and ideas about parks and
recreation in Crystal.
8. City Reports
Traci Kamish: City Council Report
Aaron Morgan: Project/Maintenance Report
Scott Berggren: Program Report
John Elholm: Director Report
9. Community Reports
John Elholm: Crystal Frolics Report
Lynn Haney / John Elholm: Crystal Fund Report
Commission Members: Other community activities and events
10. Adjournment
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes
December 6, 2023
Crystal Community Center
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting was called to order at 7:01 p.m. by
Commission Chair Tony Sumnicht.
Commission members in attendance: Tony Sumnicht (Chair), Jesse McCaffrey (Vice-Chair), Dave
Anderson, Joyce Cooper, and Lynn Haney. Also present were Traci Kamish, Council Liaison;
John Elholm, Brad Fortin and Scott Berggren from the City Staff.
Commission members absent: Jennifer Zielinski (Secretary)
Guests in attendance: Alex Popp and Kassidy Swanson
There was no public comment.
Ms. Haney made a motion to approve the November Park and Recreation Commission minutes;
Mr. McCaffrey seconded the motion. The Park and Recreation Commission minutes for
November were approved as written.
Mr. Sumnicht suggested a change to the agenda by proposing to shift the Council Report to an
earlier position in the agenda.
Ms. Haney made a motion to amend the agenda to shift the Council Report to an earlier
position. Ms. Cooper seconded the motion. The agenda was amended to shift the Council Report
to an earlier position in the agenda.
Ms. Kamish gave the council report. She mentioned that the long-term plan was approved. The
council has also been interviewing people for commission appointments. They decided to pause
the Environmental Quality Commission for now. They're going to review it and might change
how it works.
Mr. Sumnicht provided the chairperson's report, discussing details from a recent visit to
Washington, DC. During his trip, he explored the People's Garden and was particularly
impressed by its detailed signage. Additionally, he shared insights about a park he visited in
Italy, showcasing unique pictures from this distinct park experience.
Mr. Elholm recognized Tony Sumnicht for his service on the Parks and Recreation Commission.
He is leaving the commission after serving for 4 years.
Mr. Elholm talked about what's coming up in the city's long-term plan for the next three years.
The City Council recently approved this plan, which outlines projects for the next ten years. To
help improve parks, the city has two funds: one for parks and another for buildings.
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes – Page 2 December 6, 2023
Mr. Elholm highlighted projects for 2024, which include renovations to the pool. A $6.35 million
budget is allocated for improvements at the Crystal Cove Aquatic Center. These upgrades will
include newly defined areas within the pool layout to accommodate a wider range of
participants. The pool's depth will vary based on considered amenities, and there are plans for
added features to enhance its overall appeal. These enhancements are based on feedback from
the public. Proposed enhancements to the pool building were also presented.
Other projects for 2024 include replacing the parking lot at North Lions Park and improving the
hard surface courts at Valley Place Park. We are actively seeking input from the neighborhood
regarding these projects. Lastly, plans are also being developed to renovate the service counter
at the Crystal Community Center. The improvements will enhance functionality for staff and
accessibility for customers.
Mr. Elholm suggested potential outdoor meeting sites for 2024. The commission was presented
with various options, such as Skyway, Welcome, Valley Place, and Twin Oaks Parks. There was a
general consensus of approval for the proposed parks. A final schedule will be voted on at the
January 2024 meeting. Additionally, the commission expressed interest in holding the October
meeting at the Public Works building.
Commission members discussed items during the open forum, giving input, asking questions
and commenting. Topics included public appreciation for the new fitness pod and issues
related to vandalism.
Mr. Fortin gave reports on park maintenance, and Mr. Berggren gave reports on recreation
programming.
Mr. Elholm gave his Director’s Report. He wished everyone Happy Holidays!
Mr. Sumnicht gave a Crystal Frolics report. The December meeting will be an end-of-season
gathering. The Frolics Committee is looking for a secretary and treasurer.
Mr. Elholm presented the report for the Friends of Crystal Parks. They have scheduled a beer-
tasting event for March 15 and are seeking collaboration with a nearby organization to manage
the food sales through a concession stand at the event.
Ms. Haney mentioned the Santa Parade set for Saturday, December 9.
Ms. Haney made a motion to adjourn the meeting; Ms. Cooper seconded the motion.
The commission adjourned the meeting at 8:25 p.m.
John Elholm, Recorder
Date Time Place Notes
January 3 7pm Community Center
February 7 7pm Community Center
March 6 7pm Community Center
April 3 6:45pm Community Center Tree Board @ 6:45; PRC @ 7
May 1 7pm Skyway Park Arbor Day Event @ 6pm
June 5 7pm Welcome Park New Play Area
June 19 TBD Start at Community Center PRC Tour of Various Parks
July 3 or 10 7pm Valley Place Park Tennis/BB Courts
August 7 7pm Twin Oaks Park 2025 Improvement Planning
September 4 7pm Community Center PRC park clean-up before mtg.
October 2 7pm Public Works
November 6 7pm Community Center
December 4 7pm Community Center
All Meetings are on Wednesday Nights
Park and Recreation Commission
2024 DRAFT Meeting Dates
PLANNING / DEVELOPMENT approved: 01/04/2023
Item Process: Status
Becker Park Courts Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Grand Opening · Participate in Grand Opening Celebration
Bassett Creek Dog Park Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Construction · Provide Input on Project
2023 Grand Opening · Participate in Grand Opening Celebration
Welcome Park Improvements · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Construction · Provide Input on Project
2023 Grand Opening · Participate in Grand Opening Celebration
Broadway Park Improvements · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Construction · Provide Input on Project
Crystal Highlands Park Improvements · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Construction · Provide Input on Project
Bassett Creek Disc Golf Course Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Construction · Provide Input on Project
Community Center Parking Lot Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2023 Construction · Provide Input on Project
Other Capital Improvement Projects · Receive Project Updates from Staff
Pool and Community Center · Provide Input on Capital Improvement Items
Park Tour · Visit sites for project and program ideas
Locations TBD · Discuss ideas and provide input
Complete
Grand Opening - June
Complete
2023 PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PLAN
Complete - Toured
Park Buildngs
Pool Construction Docs
Being Prepared
Complete
Complete
Grand Opening -
September
Complete - Grand
Opening August
Complete
Project Complete
Grand Opening - 2024
PROMOTION / COMMUNITY OUTREACH approved: 01/04/2023
Item Process: Status
Community Events and Programs.· PRC Representation at Major P&R Events
· Assist with Crystal Frolics Activities
· Promote P&R at Non-City Activities
Recognition · Select Neighbors Rec. Neighbors Awards
· Select Crystal Frolics Button Design Awards
Recreation · Provide Input on Programs Being Offered
· Provide Feedback on Programs Attended
Summer Meetings · Encourage Citizen Participation at Meetings
4 Neighborhood Meetings May 3: Winnetka Hills Park (Arbor Day)
June 7: Becker Park
July 5: Kentucky Park
August 2: Bassett Creek Park
Partnerships · Support other Community Groups & Events
Friends of Crystal Parks
Crystal Frolics Committee, Inc.
· Encourage Collaborative Fundraising
Marketing · Promote P&R through Social Networks
· Take Photos in Parks and at Events
· Monitor Web Site, etc. for Corrections
· Encourage Links to P&R Web Site
Complete
Complete
Complete
Complete
Complete
2023 PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PLAN
Complete
PLANNING / DEVELOPMENT
Item Process: Status
Welcome Park Play Area / Fitness Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2024 Grand Opening · Participate in Grand Opening Celebration
Crystal Cove Aquatic Center Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2024 Construction · Provide Input on Project
2025 Grand Opening
Vally Place Tennis and Basketball Court Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2024 Construction · Provide Input on Project
North Lions Parking Lot Project · Receive Progress Updates from Staff
2024 Construction · Provide Input on Project
Other Capital Improvement Projects · Receive Project Updates from Staff
· Provide Input on Capital Improvement Items
Park Tour · Visit sites for project and program ideas
Locations TBD · Discuss ideas and provide input
2024 DRAFT PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PLAN
PROMOTION / COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Item Process: Status
Community Events and Programs.· PRC Representation at Major P&R Events
· Assist with Crystal Frolics Activities
· Promote P&R at Non-City Activities
Recognition · Select Neighbors Rec. Neighbors Awards
· Select Crystal Frolics Button Design Awards
Recreation · Provide Input on Programs Being Offered
· Provide Feedback on Programs Attended
Summer Meetings · Encourage Citizen Participation at Meetings
4 Neighborhood Meetings May: Skyway Park (Arbor Day)
June: Welcome Park
July: Valley Place Park
August: Twin Oaks Park
Partnerships · Support other Community Groups & Events
Friends of Crystal Parks
Crystal Frolics Committee, Inc.
· Encourage Collaborative Fundraising
Marketing · Promote P&R through Social Networks
· Take Photos in Parks and at Events
· Monitor Web Site, etc. for Corrections
· Encourage Links to P&R Web Site
2024 DRAFT PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PLAN
Park and Recreation Advisory Commission
Monthly Maintenance Report
December, 2023
Vandalism:
• Illegal dumping of leaves and branches in city Parks
Projects:
• Ice rink flooding
• Prep warming houses for the winter season
• Ash tree removal
• Installation of new park signage
• Winterize seasonal maintenance equipment
• Old dog park demolition at Bassett Creek Park
• EDA house and property clean-ups
• Street lighting maintenance
• Signage installation at forest and twin Oaks Parks
• City wide tree inspections
• Install seasonal holiday lighting
• Turf maintenance
• Playground inspections and repairs (order parts) Add EWF to various playgrounds
• Trash removal
• Water trees
Future:
• Trash removal
• City wide diseased tree inspections and notifications
• Ice rink maintenance
• Snow removal
• Building maintenance (Learn new maintenance scheduling software)
• Tree trimming and removals
• Clean air ducts at City hall
• Warming house maintenance
• Work on capital improvement projects for 2024 season
• LED lighting upgrades at City hall
• Shoreline vegetation management on ponds and Twin Lake
• Order maintenance equipment for 2024
• Construct park signage for 2024 season
4800 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55429-3553
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-0949 • www.crystalmn.gov
P R O J E C T S U M M A R Y
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
Below is a highlight of the projects that will be happening in
the City of Crystal. These projects will be taking place at
numerous parks and buildings throughout the city.
Crystal Cove Construction
The Crystal Cove Aquatic Center will be closed for the
2024 season to repair leaking and make other
improvements. The Crystal Cove will re-open in 2025
for the community to enjoy.
Ice Rink Updates
The higher temperatures have made it challenging to
make good skating ice. Our team is working hard to build
a solid ice base, but the warm weather brings unique
challenges here and in neighboring cities.
Disc Golf and Play Area Signage
During this winter, city staff is constructing posts for
displaying park signage. This includes hole signs for the
Bassett Creek Disc Golf Course and posts to showcase
signage for the grants secured to support play areas.
Valley Place Tennis
Plans are being prepared to renovate Valley Place Park's
tennis and basketball courts. Two concepts are being
reviewed and are available for comments on the city
website.
P R O G R A M S U M M A R Y
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
Below is a highlight of the programs offered by the Crystal
Recreation Department. Occasionally we will recap some
key special events we offer.
Preschool Playtime
Join us for Preschool Playtime at the CCC every
Wednesday, where little ones can explore and engage
in fun indoor activities tailored just for them, fostering
creativity and social interaction in a safe environment.
Winter Sports
Embark on unforgettable adventures with Jeannie's Journeys
in 2024! Explore five incredible destinations, including an
Alaskan cruise and a visit to the legendary Graceland,
creating lasting memories on these remarkable trips.
As the outdoor temperatures drop, the energy rises
within the gyms at the Crystal Community Center.
Winter sports such as basketball, pickleball, and
volleyball are in full swing this season.
During this winter season, we're offering five varieties of
yoga: chai, gentle, energy flow, strength, and happy joints.
These classes aim to promote health and wellness and will
be conducted by a highly trained instructor.
Extended Trips
Yoga