Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 03/11/1999

Home

input on their desire for meetings and locations. He reported on the site furnishings and landscaping ordered today for Alpine Park and work that will be completed with the trail. Thus his suggestion that the June meeting be held in Alpine Park. Chairperson Cook asked about Community Park #5. Mr. Boos stated that would be a difficult area to hold a meeting and noted there is currently no place to park. Upon inquiry, he advised that no large trail projects are being proposed and staff'is currently working on funding options. He advised there are trail segments in Riverdale Park Commissioner LaMere suggested a trail open house or that Friends of the Trail be considered as part of the Commission meeting. Chairperson Cook suggested the Lake Itasca Trail Head be considered for the May meeting kickoff so residents can be encouraged to bike or walk to the meeting area. The Commission agreed with the suggestion of Mr. Boos that the kiosk be in place several weeks prior to each meeting location. Following discussion, consensus was reached to approve the following meeting schedule: May: Riverdale Park August: June: Alpine Park September: July: Central Park October: Lake Itaska Trail Rum River Central Park Emerald Pond (tent.) COMMISSION/STAFF INPUT Commissioner Droegemueller asked if a committee has been established to determine fund raising efforts for the playground at Community Park. Mr. Boos stated the request for approval of a community build playground was considered by the Council three weeks ago and it appears they are very supportive of the project but they want to see time line information and a budget for funding sources (private sector, businesses, etc.). He reported the Council did authorize advertising for statement of qualifications to select a vendor which has been in the newspaper and will be considered by the Finance Committee where the project will be approved or declined. He stated he expects the Commission will need to address this project at every meeting, following approval, possibly dovetailing it with other meetings such as the PTA. He stated once the recommended vendor is selected, more work will be undertaken. Commissioner Droegemueller suggested this be placed on the Commission's May agenda. Chairperson Cook stated the vendor will need to be selected in April so they can approach funding at the May meeting. Commissioner Droegemueller pointed out if the Commission delays past the month of May it limits the possibility of school involvement since they adjourn in June. He suggested a plan be determined Park and Recreation Commission/March 11, 1999 Page 3 of 4