Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 12/09/1999

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I I I I I I I I ! I I I I I I I I CASE #3 DISCUSS PROGRAM TO REPLACE RENTED PORTABLE TOILETS WITH PERMANENT "PIT" TOILETS By: Mark Boos, Parks/Utilities Supervisor Background: At November's meeting, the Commission discussed a program, whereby each year a single park would receive a pit latrine to replace the rented toilets. The following are some advantages or considerations: Pit latrines usually seem cleaner and therefore more pleasant for park users. The pit latrines are more aesthetically pleasing. · Pit latrines would be available year-round. · Each month, the plastic rented units cost approximately $60 each; eventually the permanent structure would be paid for in rent savings. · The rented plastic units are frequently vandalized. A permanent structure may be less prone to vandalism. · The same successful bidder each season for the unit rental (and weekly service) would be required to service the city-owned facilities. The plan at this point would be for one unit to be constructed each year by city staff and installed in the spring. This would be built in Ramsey's Public Works storage building - making the project an excellent inclement weather activity. In addition, there is usually a period before and after the skating season where frozen ground or excessively wet soils limit some park maintenance. An alternative would be that the project could be performed as part of a high school or trade school course, thereby reducing the City's labor component. Chairman Todd Cook will attempt to have a breakdown of the costs based upon Hennepin County Park District's experience for the meeting. The plans (also obtained by Cook) will be available at the meeting. Commission Action: Based upon discussion. Reviewed by: Parks/Utilities Supervisor PR: 12/9/99 5'1 I