Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 11/12/1998

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Motion by Commissioner Ostrum and seconded by Commissioner Droegemueller to direct staffto send a general thank you letter and map to those residents who responded to the survey and left their names and addresses. Further discussion: Commissioner Rolfe asked what the letter should say and if other information should be included. Commissioner Johns suggested that Mr. Boos draft the letter. Acting Chairperson LaMere agreed with the need for staff, input. Motion carded. Voting Yes: Acting Chair LaMere, Commissioners Ostrum, Droegemueller, Johns, and Rolfe. Voting No: None. Absent: Chair Cook and Commissioner Asfahl. At this point, Acting Chairperson LaMere turned the meeting over to Commissioner Johns. Case #2: 1998 Park Development and Maintenance Review Mr. Lacey summarized the park development activity completed this past year and planting activity to be undertaken this coming spring. He stated this last year was not as active-based as usual but they did more with regard to maintenance of trails, trimming and pruning, removal of dead trees, landscape improvements, and flag pole restoration. Commissioner LaMere asked how it impacts staff when a new park area opens. Mr. Lacey stated they rely somewhat on seasonal help. He explained how they plan work tasks to spread out staff's work load. Mr. Lacey explained they also attempt to become more efficient each year which was also helped by the purchase of the new equipment to maintain ballfields. It was noted that the City has about 200 acres of park land and approximately 20 miles of trail which is maintained by two full-time Park Department personnel (not including Mr. Boos). One new staff person, previously with the City of Fridley, was just hired and will start on Monday. He advised that nine part-time seasonal workers were also utilized this past summer. Commissioner Droegemueller inquired regarding the type of work done by the seasonal workers. Mr. Lacey stated they are used for mowing, planting, etc. He noted the Fox Park survey question and advised they have removed the flotation fi.om about 9/10ths of the boardwalk. The observation deck is still free floating while the remainder will settle over the course of the winter months and should equalize with just minor adjustments needed in March. Commissioner Rolfe asked if the boardwalk will be stabilized. Mr. Lacey stated it is already stabilized for the wind shear efffect but the observation deck will be left floating due to its bulk. Commissioner Ostrum asked if there is any recourse with the contractor. Mr. Lacey stated this would be difficult since the boardwalk was constructed three years ago. He noted that the contractor has been very responsive to the City's requests for adjustments. Park and Recreation Commission/November 12, 1998 Page 4 of 7