Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 07/09/2009

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Councilmember Dehen thought that the observation pier should be placed lower than the restroom. Commissioner Barr commented that the Lake Itasca Park is heavily used. It was the consensus of the Commission and Council to rank the projects as follows: Central Park expanded parking, playground equipment for Elmcrest Park, restrooms at River's Bend Park, observation pier, shelter, and drinking fountains. Councilmember Dehen thought that a focus group should be developed to discuss the possibility of a community center. He stated that private partnership may not be available. He discussed the possibility of a shooting range and gym space. Parks Supervisor Riverblood commented that a community center had been in the elP for years. City Administrator Ulrich stated that a focus group was held last summer to identify types of facilities and possible private partnership. He stated that PACT Charter School and the youth association were both interested in partnering on the project. He thought that a group could be developed to further refine the information. Councilmember Dehen commented that private partnership may never be available and thought that the community center should be built in stages in order to move forward. Commissioner Shryock commented that the previous focus groups were not well attended by residents. She thought it would be helpful to determine the amount of public support for that project in the current economy. She explained that they would need to be clear in where the funds would come from when explaining to the public. Councilmember Dehen commented that the community center would be an amenity and would draw people to the City. He did not think that the issue should be only about money. Councilmember McGlone stated that while the community center was a pleasant vision, he was unsure that Ramsey's reality could afford that at this time. Chairperson Johns suggested starting the center with the gym space, which would be supported by ARAA. City Administrator Ulrich explained that the project was held back previously because the land was not owned by the City. He stated that the land situation would be solved within the next 30 days and suggested that a group come together to develop the most cost efficient method in moving forward. He thought that options that more or less pay for themselves, such as gym space, a gun range, and outdoor pool be explored first and items such as an indoor pool and ice rink should be avoided at this time. Park and Recreation Commission/June 11, 2009 Page 8 of 10