Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 05/21/2020

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5.02: Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that there has been considerable discussion over the years relative to naming public facilities, culminating in the Park and Recreation Commission recommending a naming policy to City Council at the regular February meeting in 2020. The draft Resolution and Naming Policy has not yet been considered formally by the City Council. Concurrent with the discussions in 2019 and into 2020, a proposal was submitted by Ramsey resident Ron Schara to rename Central Park to honor and recognize long- time resident and internally renown Loral I Armstrong Delaney. Staff supports the revised name for the 36-year-old park. Chair Bennett stated that this would be an opportunity that could set precedent. He stated that his personal goal would not be to change names across the City but liked the idea by staff to enhance the Central Park which strikes a balance. Commissioner Sis agreed with Chair Bennett that the hybrid name would be a good option to pay tribute the resident and also maintain the Central Park name. He stated that this would clear up confusion between Central Park and Rum River Central Park as well. He asked for details on the cost and logistics in changing the name. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood replied that the cost has not yet been investigated. He noted that the name could be added to the existing monument. He noted that staff would look into the costs associated prior to bringing this to City Council. He noted that he park was originally donated by Federal Cartridge and naming the park after Loral I Armstrong Delaney, who is recognized for trap shooting, could be an opportunity to bring in Federal Cartridge to assist with the renaming costs. Councilmember Heinrich asked staff to share some of the discussion the Council had when Ron Schara made the proposal to the City Council. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood provided a summary of the discussion that took place when Ron Schara made his proposal to the City Council, noting that the Council seemed to support the renaming of the park. Councilmember Heinrich stated that she appreciates the concept proposal drafted by staff that would enhance the existing Central Park sign and name. Chair Bennett agreed that he likes the Central Park sign and commented that this could be a way to enhance the park and the signage. Commissioner Leistico stated that she likes the ties ins with Armstrong Boulevard and the historic ties to the community. Commissioner Guck stated that he moved to Ramsey four years ago and has heard a lot about Loral I Armstrong Delaney, noting that he has received many positive comments from residents. Park and Recreation Commission/May 21, 2020 Page 6 of 8