Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/10/2019

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area, a shelter shade at the off -leash area in Alpine Park, as well as amphitheater lighting and sound system improvements. Motion by Commissioner Bayer, seconded by Commissioner Trappen, to recommend a 2019- 2028 Parks Capital Improvement Plan to City Council. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chair Bennett; Commissioners Bayer, Trappen, Leistico, Sis. Voting No: None. Absent: None. 5.04: Consider the Issuance of an RFP for Ford Brook Park's Renovation Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood began discussion of issuing an RFP for Ford Brook Park's renovation, which would bring the aging into compliance with the ADA. He noted the play equipment was salvaged from another park system many decades ago. It is a little tired and uninspiring, and so it has been in the CIP for a few years. Residents would like to see improvements to the park. He noted some of the work could be done by volunteer groups. Staff would issue the RFP with a not -to -exceed amount and parse out elements that would be conducive to be done by volunteers, such as landscaping. He noted that in this park, about 19 homes to the north and northeast are actually in the City of Nowthen. Staff has initiated discussions with the City and the Nowthen Lions about collaborating on this as an area community project. Commissioner Leistico asked whether anyone has gotten back to staff. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood responded that the Lions are bringing the topic to their full board. They do want to do a park project; they are probably more inclined do one in the City proper, but this is a neat project where they may participate on a smaller scale. It would be a great opportunity for Ramsey Lions and Nowthen Lions to collaborate. One of the Lions was on the Nowthen Park Board as well, and she's going to bring it to that Board. Previously, staff has brought it to the City's clerk. As one might expect, they are more inclined to invest in something that is clearly their own park. However, there are 19 households that are separated from Nowhen that require residents to drive through Ramsey streets in order to get to their homes. Commissioner Sis asked how this proposal fits into the broader scope of the stated priority of not investing in smaller parks but rather prioritizing regional parks. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood responded that the policy calls for the City to be mindful about thinking about the value of new small parks, such as a tot lot, and instead focus on larger parks and connections. In this case, however, Ford Brook is in an existing park and in existing neighborhood, and it is tired. The City has been examining this for a long time. At the same time, staff does need to refine its policy on playground replacements so smaller, older playgrounds are not neglected. Sometimes neighborhood parks can be underwhelming. They don't always have a tremendous return on investment as community parks or trails that connect neighborhoods and destinations. Park and Recreation Commission/November 8, 2018 Page 4of6