5.a) Chair ReportPRC Chair report — for February 4, 2019
Lilleskogen Grant Application Feedback
The grant for Lilleskogen restoration through the Conservation Partners Legacy Program was denied in
September. I contacted Kathy Varbles, of the DNR, for additional feedback.
Key points:
• More detail was needed, given the size of the grant requested. Overall, more explanation was
needed to detail the actual habitat work
• The CPL program is habitat focused; any reference to trails, structures, signs, etc. are not habitat
focused and thus do not meet criteria for the grant. Per Ms. Varbles, it was not clear if these
non -habitat items were in or out.
• The amount is considered very expensive, given the size of the park.
• Landscaping should not be referenced, as landscaping is not considered a habitat enhancement
of improvement. It isnot looked at kindly' for this kind of grant.
• Focus of the grant is wetland restoration, invasive species eradication, and native planting /
native plant restoration, and water control structure. Trees and shrubs are included.
She suggested the size of the grant request be lowered, with specific focus on the habitat issues, as
listed above. These should include any water control structures. She explained the expedited, a.k.a.
'eCLP' process, for grants smaller than $50,000. That process closes March 18, with an estimated 3 -
week review/ approval timeframe. This program also requires a 10% match, that isn't necessarily all
monetary. It could include time of volunteers and / or city staff time (personnel) to get to the 10%.
Ms. Varbles forwarded additional information on the eCPL program, as well as a copy of the grant
application.
https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/assistance/izrants/habitat/cpl/eco-oroiect-list.odf
Lilleskogen plan
I reviewed the Lilleskogen restoration plan, per direction at the January 2019 PRC meeting and for first
discussion at the February 2019 meeting. Comments for plan review have been added. Any past due
dates have been removed. PRC needs to review, recommend changes for the plan.
Conversation with Sue Rodsio. Scandia Heritage Committee
I met with Sue Rodsjo to discuss the preliminary ideas, spearheaded by the Scandia Heritage Alliance, for
planning the reconstruction of the historic Hilltop Tower Barn. They are planning a public meeting in
early May. The purpose of the meeting will be to review and solicit ideas that include possible
improvements to various park areas, with a new home for the reconstructed building.
The building was formerly located in the city center near the Scandia Calf -A . It is currently dis-
assembled and stored. Re -assembly may include enhancements to make it a small conference or event
center. That may include adding additional square footage, complementary to the original structure.
There are at least two possibilities. Others may be brought forth.
1. Locate the water tower building near the intersection of highways 95 and 97, as a trail head for
future trail expansion to the SNA and other natural development of the area.
2. Reconfigure the ball field located on the south end of the community center. Build the water
tower, add an amphitheater that takes advantage of the view of the wetland, and possibly make
a trail around the wetland or build a boardwalk across. Add fencing to the children's t -ball field
and make that park dual use (t -ball and regulation softball). The t -ball site is presumed to have
enough space to a full field.
Discussion of an amphitheater will likely have impact on whether a similar structure in Lilleskogen is
built. An amphitheater is in the Lilleskogen restoration plan.
The Heritage Alliance's goal is to present preliminary materials to the PRC prior to the public meeting.
Vinterfest
Thanks go to Judi Negus, Dan Lee, Ryan Goodman (Bolton and Menk), and Patti Ray for helping with the
January 26 Vinterfest snow sculpture contest. Thanks also to Dan for set up and wood delivery for the
fire -pit.
A follow up conversation will be scheduled with the Lions and PRC and city council reps to review
planning for Vinterfest 2020.
Respectfully submitted,
Terry Gorham, PRC Chair