Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 04/09/1998

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Commissioner Droegemueller suggested Ramsey businesses be asked if they would like to participate in this program by providing gi~ certificates which would also provide them with additional advertising. Chairperson Cook asked if the Maintenance staffor Police Officers would be willing to issue citations and present gift certificates. Mr. Boos stated he thinks they would be. Chairperson Cook suggested that the program proceed with finding gift certificates. Commissioner Droegemueller suggested the next In the Parks newsletter article include mention of this program and also encourage local businesses to participate by providing certificates. Mr. Boos stated a letter mailing may be a better avenue to reach local businesses than using the City newsletter. Mr. Boos suggested staff prepare an outline of how this program would operate which can be presented at the April Park and Recreation Commission meeting and then considered by the City Council. The Commission concurred. Commissioner LaMere suggested an adopt-a-park program be explored. Mr. Boos explained the adopt-a-park program was popular in the late 1980's and had been advertised but without a lot of interest. He stated that it seems people prefer larger projects which are more visible versus routine maintenance. Chairperson Cook noted there are school programs which require community service by students which can include park maintenance activities. He suggested it may be appropriate to approach the local high school to determine if they are interested in such a program. Mr. Boos stated the City continues to work with students who need to provide community service as part of their graduation program. He stated he will prepare a program plan for consideration at the April meeting. Case #2a: Determine Park Dedication for The Diamonds Mr. Boos reviewed the request for the Diamonds Sports Bar and Grill and noted the proposed cash - park dedication based upon fair market value or $2.00 per square foot is in accordance with the City's policy for commercial properties. He explained the action needed is to recommend park dedication for this property but the Commission may want to provide their thoughts on screening and lighting. Mr. Boos stated he talked with Mr. Von Delinde of Anoka County Parks who has indicated he concurs with Staffthat park dedication is best served by a cash contribution. It was noted that Mr. Von Delinde has submitted a letter providing written comments regarding several issues pertaining to this proposal including spillover ofballfield lighting, trespass potential into the County park, and visual screening of the planned recreational amenities in Mississippi West Regional Park. Gary Gruber, applicant, explained they propose three softball fields and five volleyball courts in the summer and three broomball courts in the winter months. He explained they are trying to design a sports complex rather than a bar and are proposing a full menu. He explained he and the other two Park and Recreation Commission/March 12, 1998 Page 5 of 9