Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 02/14/1991

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COMMISSION INPUT 1) Chairman Her]and noted a letter received from Mr. Jackson regarding an application for an open burning permit at the River's Bend Park. Mr. Jackson also indicated a willingness to attend the March Park and Recreation Commission meeting regarding Ramsey Elementary School. Mr. Otto explained Mr. Jackson is requesting the City schedule the open burn to burn off the excess material in the prairie grass next spring at a cost of $500 to $600. He questioned the success of the prairie planting, reviewing the background of that project. He did not want to commit the City to the burn at this time. In discussing the matter, the Commission wondered if the Ramsey Fire Department could do the burn if it is needed. Mr. Boos stated he would check with them, and this spring he would also investigate the progress of the prairie planting and determine whether there is a need for the burn. No Commission action was needed. 2) Chairman Her]and acknowledged the memorandum from Barb Bishop-Tres]er, Arc-Anoka County regarding an upcoming workshop on working with families who have a child(ten) with deve]oi>~)le;t<~( disabi]ltles. He asked if any of the Commissioners were interested in attending the workshop. Commissioner Prall thought someone from Ramsey Elementary School may be interested in attending the workshop. No Commission action was taken. 3) Chairman Hetland asked the Commission to consider a recommendation that the City of Ramsey become involved in the International Special Olympics. It may be too late to do much for 1991; however, he felt it is something that would be of benefit to the City and to those Ramsey residents who may want to participate in the Special Olympics. For instance, a Ramsey Special Olympics could be held for athletes to qualify for the Minnesota Special O|ympics. He asked if he should puruse this further, which would also require the support of the City Council and the Community School plus more than one coordinator. The Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the proposal. Commissioner Pra]] had a 12-minute video presentation on the Special Olympics for the Commissioners to review. She is also working on this project through Community Education at Ramsey Elementary School. She noted that Ramsey has been assigned the country of Saudi Arabia, and the Community School will be setting up pen pals and other activities. Commissioner Swokowski pointed out his wife's experiences and support for the program. PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION / FEBRUARY 14, 1991 Page 6 of 8