Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 09/09/1999

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Emerald Pond Park was very well utilized, and he believed that each of the neighborhood parks should be somewhat unique, rather than simply a green-space within a group of housing. Commissioner Droegemueller stated the Commission would be justifying a number of these types of projects in the future. He commented the argument that would always occur in regard to these improvements, vs. athletic fields and irrigation improvements, however, you can not have all of one thing. He noted more than one type of citizen utilizes the parks. Commissioner Johns stated she considered the use of Emerald Pond Park similar to that of a community park. She added the Commission has emphasized the improvement of these parks. Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated they were attempting to provide a place were someone might feel comfortable taking a rest from a bike ride, or to sit and read a book. He stated without this, the area would be somewhat stark. He stated the vines are now growing, and the cedar is beginning to become weathered. He stated the trees will be cottonwood, and in 20 to 30 years they will provide a large green canopy, with a mossy ground cover. Motion by Commissioner Asfahl, seconded by Commissioner Ostrum, to recommend moving forward with Emerald Park Pond project in 1999, with the understanding that the construction will not occur until the year 2000. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chair Cook, Commissioners Asfahl, Ostmm, Droegemueller, and Johns. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioners LaMere and Rolfe. Case #5: Update on the Master Trail Plan Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated that the purpose of this item was the announcement of the date of the City Council workshop to discuss the Master Trail Plan, however, the date has not yet been set. He stated he would notify the Commission of the meeting date as soon as it became available. Written comment provided by absent Commissioner Rolfe; "I would like to be one of the Commission Representatives to the work shop." Park/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated he had received the Anoka County Parks agenda, which did not arrive in time for inclusion in the agenda. He stated that copies of the agenda would be provided to the Commissioners, if so desired. Commissioner Asfahl inquired if the Commissioners would be receiving the agendas of the City Council meetings, as discussed at the prior meeting. Park Utilities Supervisor Boos stated that he would follow up on this matter. Park and Recreation Commission/September 9, 1999 Page 13 of 14