Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 07/14/2005

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Civil Engineer II Linton did not think they were going to do this at this time because to upgrade a building costs 150 percent more than doing a new building. Chairperson Johns thought it seemed like extravagant because they already have water and bathrooms at the park in the current building and she did not think they needed to have all the little buildings in one park and not have everything they want in one building. Commissioner Lehman understood the Lions Club and everything they represent but he womlcrcd if the Lions and the City have looked at any of the options on renovating the park c~ntcr building. Chairperson Johns stated she talked to the Lions many months ago and they were open to it but they did not think they had the funds to do it in time. She stated they discussed looking into this further at the June joint meeting and she was afraid this was getting lost in the hurry to build this s~ructurc. ('ivil Engineer Il Linton noted the other parks that will need buildings in the future. Chairperson Johns did not think they needed two concession stands at Central Park. She would like to sec them reconstruct Central Park with the Gun Club developing and expand parking and the internal drive. She stated her biggest fear is that the new proposed structure will quickly be outdated. (iivil [mgineer II Linton thought when the Gun Club develops they will be able to bring sewer and water into the park for the buildings. ('hairperson Johns thought they needed to start centralizing the concessions and expand the parks IllOI'C. Civil I';ngineer II Linton thought they could have multiple groups utilizing the facilities if they arc separate. Hc stated the Council did like the concept of having a package deal. Chairperson Johns asked how if they add bathrooms and water and sewer, are they going to expand the buildings because it is pushed against the parking lot and the ball field already. She did not think it is the most attractive spot to put the "premier building" in the park. She thought il was at waste when they already have a central building that could be renovated and expanded. Commissioner Lehman felt everything was going forth without figuring what all of the options were and not looking into the future for the park. He thought this was a great donation and act by the Lions but he could not make a recommendation either way without all of the facts or options. Chairperson Johns stated this made her very nervous because they may be acting in hast on this. Commissioner Lehman wondered if this building was discussed and talked about at the City Council level. Park and Recreation Commission/July 14, 2005 Page 4 of 7