Commission recommends passive lakeside amenity and Diamond Lake trail for Shaney Parcel concept

The Parks Commission reviewed the Shaney Parcel concept (about 107 acres, north of Thicket Hills) on March 4 and recommended placing a small, passive lakeside amenity near Laurel Lake and pursuing a trail along North Diamond Lake Road.

Why it matters: the project currently proposes 10 large lots (lot sizes discussed from roughly 5 to 20 acres). Commissioners said a modest, passive park — benches, a short boardwalk or overlook, a small picnic shelter and limited parking — would create public access and scenic value while preserving the area’s rural character. Staff noted that building a boardwalk adjacent to water would likely cost significantly more than the trail dedication fees the city collects from residential development.

John, the city planner, described the site and the Comprehensive Plan’s recommended trail along North Diamond Lake Road. Commissioners recommended that, if the developer or fee revenue allows, the city pursue a small lakeside amenity rather than a full neighborhood playground; members characterized the concept as low-key, passive recreation rather than a developed playfield.

Commissioners also discussed “ghost” platting — preserving the possibility of smaller lots in the future if sewers or infrastructure become available — and noted that fee revenue from a 10-lot project would be limited compared with the cost of boardwalk and water-edge improvements.

Ending: the commission’s formal recommendation is to pursue the North Diamond Lake Road trail and to seek a small passive amenity on the north edge of Laurel Lake when feasible; staff will relay the recommendation to planning staff and the developer as the preliminary plat moves forward to the planning commission.