Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 06/12/2003 - Joint with CC

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Commissioner Ostrum withdrew his motion to construct a basic, class 5 access road and parking area without any trees, with the approved $215,000 from the CIP. Commissioner LaMere withdrew his second. Motion by Commissioner Shryock, seconded by Lehman, to recommend that City Council approve the use of 2003 CIP monies for Elmcrest Park by authorizing preparation of specifications and preparing for advertisement of bids and that planning include coordination with the potential sewer and water installation. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Johns, Commissioners Shryock, Lehman, LaMere, Olds, and Ostrum. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioner Rolfe. The Commission discussed the possible road access to Elmcrest Park. Motion by Commissioner Shryock, seconded by LaMere, to recommend to City Council to direct staff to proceed with the process for creation of a public street from 167th Avenue to Elmcrest Park. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Johns, Commissioner Shryock, LaMere, Lehman, Olds, and Ostrum. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioner Rolfe. Case #2: Design Phase for Alpine Park's Playground Project Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos explained that one of the 2003 Parks Capital Improvement Projects proposed is a special playground area at Alpine Park. The discussion to date has been that the play structure could be integrated with an area that includes interpretive aspects for families, perhaps outdoor game elements, and may be considered in the realm of public art. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos advised that the most recent discussions have led to using recycled materials to take advantage of other funding sources including external grants. The intent is that the project would expand in scope from the $80,000 dollar Park Trust Fund investment in a play structure site, and evolve into a high quality, unique destination, and one that the City is genuinely proud of. This project is currently not intended for 2003 construction. Councilmember Kurak stated that she really likes the concept and would like to see a park like this in the City. Chairperson Johns stated that she is really excited about this park because it is so unique. She stated that because of Alpine Park's proximity to the Ramsey Elementary School, there is the possibility of working with them on their environmental learning programs. Parks/Utilities Supervisor Boos stated that the concept for the outdoor game could be based upon the core values that the schools focus on and that could make the park a destination point for both families and schools. He stated that at this point, the Commission needs to get a sense from the Council if this if the right direction for the park and if so, the Commission needs to move into a specific design and development phase. He stated that it will take $15,000 to $20,000 to design and cover expenses already incurred for the preliminary planning of Alpine Park. Park and Recreation Commission/June 12, 2003 Page 6 of 9