Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 05/09/1996

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Chair Cook provided an explanation of the Lawful Gambling Improvement Fund which allows groups to make application for the use of the annual interest ($3,000) in a matching grant program (funds or labor) to complete park projects. Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that he was unable to get this matter placed on the next City Council agenda so there may be a two-week delay for approval which will impact Mr. Kujawa's proposed schedule for planting on May 18, 1996. Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos then provided a detail explanation of the intended landscaping project wkich will add wildlife habitat and soften the chain link fence. Chair Cook suggested seedless cottonwood trees be considered in the landscaping plan. Mr. Kujawa, Student Coordinator, advised he has found fifteen volunteers so far and received prices fi.om Mortons Nursery for the landscape plantings. Commissioner Johns asked if a two-week delay will result in loss of volunteers. Mr. Kujawa stated it may because some of the volunteers need the community service hours to graduate and the last day of school is May 31, 1996, with graduation on June 5, 1996. Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos commented on the possibility of using Central Park landscaping funds with the intent the funds would be reimbursed once approved by Council. Motion by Commissioner LaMere and seconded by Commissioner Asfahl to recommend the City Council approve the Central Park landscaping project and, if needed, use the Central Park landscape budget for Mr. Kujawa's project with the intent to replenish the funds with Lawful Gambling Improvement Fund pursuant to this proposal. Commissioner Johns pointed out Mortons Nursery, a local Ramsey business, is involved with this project. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chair Cook, Commissioners LaMere, Asfahl, Johns, Ostrum and Skinner. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioner Droegemueller. Case tt4: REVIEW 5 YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CIP) Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos reviewed the 5-year CI~ by indicating the anticipated park improvements and allocated dollars. He requested input on the CIP and requests for projects which should be included in the 1997 drat~ plan. It was noted this will be discussed, in detail, at the June meeting when a public hearing will be held and Council will be requested to attend. A resident suggested the C~ address the reduced Landfill Trust Fund interest earnings which will impact park improvements. Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos reviewed the proposed dollar allocation proposed for each park and improvements anticipated. Park and Recreation Commission/May 9, 1996 Page 4 of 6