Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 08/08/1996

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Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that $40,000 Landfill Trust Fund interest earnings be used for grading and turf establishment in 1997. Commissioner Ostrum suggested including a disclaimer in the CIP stating that they are not satisfied with the dollar amounts and will be seeking alternative financing. Commissioner Droegemueller stated that he was disappointed that the Finance Committee was not willing to look at alternative financing solutions. He explained that the Finance Committee was not willing to consider the general fund as an alternative, and it will be difficult to maintain the current parks without support from the public. Vice Chair Johns explained that the Finance Committee recommended that the Park and R~reation Commission tap into the business community for funding. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos added that using volunteers is not the sole solution for park maintenance. Referencing volunteers, Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos pointed out that a project-by-project basis was workable with community support. He explained that Alpine Park, and the Central Park playground could benefit in this manner. Commissioner Ostrum suggested attaching these items to the CIP. Commissioner Ostrum asked if there were any concept plans for Alpine Park. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that two plans were drafted by himself, and one was hired out. Commissioner Ostrum recommended a meeting be held to present the concepts. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that they needed a better plan for the park. Commissioner Ostrum stated that community involvement may persuade the City to sell the land sooner. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated they will review the concept plans for Alpine Park at the September meeting. Commissioner Ostrum recommended informing the neighborhood. Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that mailings were too costly for something that has yet to be approved. Commissioner Droegemueller suggested a newspaper ad asking for continuing comment. Vice Chair Johns suggested a newspaper interview with Chairperson Todd Cook. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated that would be appropriate, and the September 12, 1996 meeting will include the presentation of the Alpine Park concept plan. He added that the City Council and public will be invited for comment. Mr. Osboum commented that the Park and Recreation Commission could refer the Alpine Park residents to Solstice Park as an example. He explained that the neighborhood is enthusiastic about their park, as it was a community effort. Motion by Commissioner Droegemueller and seconded by Commissioner Asfahl to approve the CIP with the condition that they continue to work with the Finance Committee to find additional funding for park and recreational development. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated the Finance Committee meets at 6:00 p.m. on August 27, 1996, to discuss the CIP and recommended the Park and Recreation Commission attend. Commissioner Ostrum asked if the CIP narrative was included with the CIP. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos requested comment regarding the narrative and stated that it would be included with the CP. Commissioner Ostrum asked that the Commission see the CIP narrative prior to case preparation. Commissioner LaMere asked if there were many cuts from the last CIP draft. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that originally he included all items related to parks to Park and Recreation Commission/August 8, 1996 Page 6 of 8