Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 07/09/2020

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Chair Bennett agreed that perhaps the rock boulder become the standard for the smaller parks, as those types of signs already exist in many parks and the more standard sign could be used for the larger, more community type park destinations. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood provided details on the proposed observation boardwalk and related pedestrian and parking improvements at Lake Itasca Community Park. Councilmember Heinrich asked if Ramsey would pursue partnership with Anoka County for the canoe system, similar to Sunfish Lake. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood provided details on the funds used for the Sunfish Lake project and did not believe that Anoka County had not to accepted additional funds SHIP from the legislature for that purpose. He continued to review projects included in the Capital Improvement Plan including a trail, the Mississippi River observation deck and other trail segments. He noted that some of the items included in the plan are opportunity driven and will be reviewed when development occurs. He reviewed details on Municipal Plaza, the dog park, North Fork trail connection, amphitheater lighting, and aeration for Sunfish Lake and The Draw. Chair Bennett thanked staff for the update, noting the challenges that 2020 has brought including whether projects could be completed. He commented that there is a good diversity of projects for 2020. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood confirmed the consensus of the Commission to pursue a smaller sign for Ford Brook because there was available funding within the budget for that project. He stated that he will be working with the Community Development Department on the different signage projects in order to package them together and hopefully complete in conjunction with the Bunker Lake Boulevard and TH 47 road project in fall of 2021. 6. COMMISSION/STAFF INPUT Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood summarized the memorandum that was distributed from Recreation Specialist Proulx. He highlighted virtual art events and art in the park programming. He stated that art in the park reduced the number of participants from 40 to 12 in order to meet social distancing requirements and advised that the available spots filled immediately. He provided an update on shelter maintenance. He stated that if desired, the Commission could meet at Alpine Park later this year. rd Councilmember Heinrich commented that there was a good discussion at the June 23 meeting related to Riverstone South. She stated that an idea came forward at the meeting where the developer could consider additional tree preservation that would remain natural rather than developing a park. She stated that she has provided her notice of resignation to the City Council as her family will be moving out of state. She stated that it has been a pleasure to work with the Commission and to serve the community. Chair Bennett commented that the Commission appreciates the representation that Councilmember Heinrich has provided to the Commission. Park and Recreation Commission/July 9, 2020 Page 3 of 4