Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 03/14/2024

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Councilmember Musgrove referenced the bike racks and asked for more information, specifically whether those would seem to be sufficient for families to use. Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood provided more details on that proposed element. He noted that the City would be purchasing that equipment from the State contract and the contractor would simply be installing those by pouring concrete. He stated that the specific bike rack that they will use has not been selected. Motion by Commissioner Bennett, seconded by Commissioner Olson, to recommend to City Council a not to exceed amount of$430,000 from the Park Trust Fund for the construction of trails, and related improvements, to The Waterfront. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chair Barten; Commissioners Bennett, Olson and Ealain. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioners Arts, Leistico, Loss, and Sis. 5.03: Consider Irrigation for Municipal Plaza Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that this project was also included in the CIP for the past few years and the overall project scope for The Waterfront and this area for 2024. He provided details on the plans for Municipal Plaza and specifically the proposed irrigation plans. He asked for consensus from the Commission on whether it would make sense for staff to develop those irrigation plans for consideration. Chair Barten asked if there would be a possibility for low water options for the turf grass. Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood replied that staff is cognizant of the importance of doing that when it makes sense. He stated that this is a dry, exposed site with high evaporation. He noted that topsoil was imported, and they would use smart technology for the irrigation system. He stated that they would also use low flow heads and fracture the spray to spread the water over a larger area. He noted that they also water overnight or at off-peak times to maximize conservation. Commissioner Olson noted the activities of Happy Days that occur in that area and the benefit that would be provided by having nice grass in that area rather than dry, crispy ground. He stated that he supports the irrigation project. Commissioner Ealain stated that she understands the desire to have this area be lush grass, but noted that other than Happy Days the area mainly appears to be used for dogs. Parks&Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that also within the CIP this year is an off-leash area for dogs off Veterans Drive, which would move that activity to the identified area. He stated that signs could be placed deterring that dog activity while this work and seeding is occurring. Commissioner Olson noted that with the improved surface, the use could lend itself to different activities. Park and Recreation Commission/March 14, 2024 Page 3 of 5