Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 06/10/2021

Home

Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that a GIS line of 1,500 feet could be drawn for a park. He stated that while the school district will not tell you whether a home has children, it will reply to the number and ages of children within that GIS area. He stated that data tends to provide valuable information on whether a playground replacement would be appropriate or whether there is not an age group demand in that area to support the investment. Councilmember Heineman commented that he likes the idea of larger regional parks as it provides a broader benefit for the community and economy. He agreed that it would be important to review the usage of the parks as part of the consideration. He noted that some parks are desolate. He asked if there is an ability to sell a park that is not being used and use those funds to improve trails and other park infrastructure. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood commented that had been considered in the past but there was a large amount of opposition from that neighborhood. He stated that if land is dedicated through park dedication, the land cannot be sold in that manner, it would revert to the original owner. Councilmember Heineman commented that a feasibility study on the use of the park could support transitioning an active park into a more natural recreation area. Commissioner Barten agreed that transition to a natural area could be viewed as more preferential for neighborhoods that have aged and no longer have a use for playground equipment. Councilmember Heineman agreed and stated that if playground features are still desired, perhaps more natural features are incorporated that reduce maintenance needs. Commissioner Walker stated that even if park dedicated land reverts back to the original owner, that land would be sold for development and would add to the tax roll. Councilmember Heineman commented that he did not see that as a benefit to giving up park land. Chair Bennett noted that there are creative solutions to be had but the policy will be needed in order to provide the initial evaluation. Consensus of the Commission was to direct staff to continue to develop a potential framework and policy. 6. COMMISSION/STAFF INPUT Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that the Summer Concert Series is starting the following week. He noted that Art in the Park will restart again, and the Art Fair th will be July 11 at Elmcrest Park. He stated that the new Recreation Specialist was recently hired and will be working on recreational programming opportunities. Commissioner Loss referenced the expansion of the dog park at Alpine, noting that he is unsure if people are aware that new section is open for use. He commented that he believed a second entrance was also being adding that he has not noticed. Park and Recreation Commission/June 10, 2021 Page 4 of 6