Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 10/09/2008

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COMMISSION/STAFF INPUT Commissioner Hanson commented that he is the head of the football program in the City and stated that he has received several good comments on Central Park. He thought that the City did a very good job with all the traffic that goes through that park. Commissioner Shryock thought that Ramsey was making a good name for itself with parks among youth associations. Parks Supervisor Riverblood commented that the Ramsey Lions Club provided the building for that park and thanked them again for their contribution. Commissioner Shryock thought that was a good example of the good relationships that the City has among the business owners and other associations and groups within the City. Commissioner Shryock questioned if an update could be given on Sunfish Lake Park. Parks Supervisor Riverblood advised that the City Council did approve the Master Plan for the Sunfish Lake Park and they are currently going out to bid. He advised that the project would come back before the Commission and Council in the fall so that they would be able to begin construction in early 2009. He advised that they are currently working with Anoka Ramsey Community College and they may participate in the project. He hoped to have something back soon on this item. Commissioner Shryock questioned if a little more could be discussed on partnering with the college. Parks Supervisor Riverblood advised that an ecology teacher integrated her teaching plan to include this project and the students would research and develop the interpretive signs for the park. He advised that these interpretive boards would be reviewed next week at the college and at the regular Commission meeting in December these students would present their designs to the Commission and talk about their work. He explained that it not only helps out the park but also gives the students a unique opportunity. He advised that they had also spoken with the Environmental Policy Board about partnering on other activities. Commissioner Shryock questioned if there could be an update on the. mapping of trails, the mileage of the trails, and connection of trails. She advised that they previously had an intern working on that project but is no longer and just wanted to ensure that the project would continue. Parks Supervisor Riverblood stated that the annual trail maintenance program had been completed and the Council did allow for $7,500 per year to be contributed to trail maintenance. He advised that they had first repaired a trail that was over 15 years old that had been collapsing due to gopher holes. He advised that they had done another section in Rivers Bend Park and Park and Recreation Commission/October 9, 2008 Page 5 of6