Minutes - Council Work Session - 02/24/2009

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Community Development Director Miller stated that there is a current policy, which is why they stated that it needed to be reviewed by staff, since it would be posted on public property. Councilmember Dehen asked if he wanted to put up a John Dehen plaque in the park ifhe would be allowed. Community Development Director Miller reiterated that the City doesn't have a policy on this. Councilmember Jeffrey stated that this request is going to make the Council discuss a policy for this situation. Councilmember Elvig stated that he agreed that a policy is a good idea and noted that he has been working with the Boy Scouts on putting a centennial sculpture in a number of communities. He stated that he thinks he can gather some information that they have run into with this endeavor for the Council to review also. He stated that he would also like to know what the intent of the memorial is, for example, driving by, or actually stopping and having events. He stated that he is concerned about parking if there will be events. He stated that it should be vandal proof because plaques have been taken, so perhaps something in stone, rather than a plaque would be a better idea. He stated that he would like to see this type of memorial on the trail system so people walking by can see them. He stated that there may be some areas around that may be more suitable than the proposed location. He expressed concern about an outside contractor doing work on City property and suggested that there be a time limit put on completion of the project, especially if there are fundraising issues and suggested phasing the project. Councilmember Dehen stated that he likes Councilmember Jeffrey's suggestion to throw it to Park and Recreation to have more of a policy discussion as well as discussion about possible alternative locations. Ms. Groth stated that they are open to discussing alternative sites but raised concerns about privately funding somethin~ in a City park. Community Development Director Miller stated that other cities typically have a list of needs for different parks, so for example, a bench, so the group could purchase a memorial bench for that park, it just wouldn't be the memorial that they are currently proposing. Councilmember Elvig stated that he thinks location should be included in any policy discussion. He stated that he doesn't want to throw cold water on the project, but wants to make sure it is done with thought. Ms. Groth stated that if this project isn't approved at this location, they would suggest that City do something at this unsightly area. City Council Work Session / February 24, 2009 Page 4 of7