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I I I Council Meeting Minutes December 13, 1990 Page 4 Council Business. continued The driving range would generate income of approximately $530,600 over five years with total expense, including capital and operating, totalling $388,412. The total net profit over five years is expected at $140,000. Staff also researched the addition of a miniature golf course which could be developed for $58,000 with anticipated revenues of $135,157 over five years. The Park Board was approached by a local youth soccer association asking that the Miller site be utilized for soccer fields. The Park Board asked staff to investigate additional soccer facilities within the City. Staff recommends consideration of a driving range rather than a soccer facility on the Miller site. The City is now incurring holding costs on the site and a driving range will generate revenue, whereas a soccer facility will not. Anderson said some soccer facilities can be provided at Hansen and Meadow Wood Parks. Dale Merriman, youth soccer association, said the New Brighton summer soccer program involves 300 children and illustrates the need for additional facilities. He said Hansen and Meadow Wood only accommodate practices, but the Miller site could house 3 soccer fields. Rebelein mentioned areas north of the Powerhouse and Joe's Service Station and asked staff to investigate whether these are adequate for soccer fields. Benke asked if Hansen and Meadow Wood facilities could be upgraded. Anderson mentioned Hansen's poor soils and stated that past attempts to stabilize the ground have been unsuccessful. Meadow Wood could accommodate practices, but parking for games may present problems for nearby residents. Vermont Park may be suitable for practice/game fields, but parking could be a problem. Silver Oak could accommodate a practice field. Larson feels Vermont could be utilized for soccer facilities. Benke said Congressman Vento is pursuing the use of Army property in Arden Hills for three softball, one baseball, and two soccer fields. Anderson said that progress has been slow and that he would not envision the facilities there for another 5 to 10 years. Rebelein suggested that soccer parents write their representatives about this issue. Benke prefers upgrading areas for permanent soccer use, rather than making temporary use of the Miller Property. Motion by Gunderman, seconded by Williams, to DIRECT STAFF AND PARK BOARD TO CONDUCT AN IN-HOUSE FEASIBiliTY STUDY WITHIN 90 DAYS AS TO POTENTIAL SITES FOR SOCCER PRACTICE/GAME FACiliTIES. 5 Ayes - 0 Nayes, Motion Carried Council Business Driving Range - Miller Property Report 90-263