Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 12/10/1998

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Case #2: Community Center Planning Report Commissioner Rolfe presented an update on the progress to date with the Community Center. He stated that the committee has visited the Maplewood, Shoreview, and New Brighton community centers and have seen a wide variety of amenities. The committee met with the manager and director of the Maplewood Community Center where he gave a presentation. Commissioner Rolfe stated that they are in the information gathering stage at this time to allow the committee to make a presentation. The committee would like to put together a presentation to gain input from the community on fees, costs, and how the center will be financed. Commissioner Rolfe noted that a major concern is the way the information will be presented to the community so that the ideas are not turned down. Commissioner Asfahl asked where the Tri-City Community Center would be located if it did go through. Commissioner Rolfe stated that k would be in the City of Andover, but the Tri-City option is now on hold. Commissioner Asfahl asked if a price range has been determined. Commissioner Rolfe stated that the range is extremely broad and could be from $5 million to $15 million depending on the facilities included in the community center. Commissioner Asfahl asked if a joint venture could be accomplished with LifeTime Fitness or the YMCA. Commissioner Rolfe stated that this has been discussed and the committee is also talking with the school district to work out scheduling. Commissioner Ostrum noted that the longer the City waits the higher the price will be for a piece of land for the center. Commissioner Rolfe agreed and stated that the committee understands this and is trying to determine how the City will forward this information to the public. Chairperson Cook added that by waiting, the City may also lose out to a neighboring community if another center were to be completed before one in the City of Ramsey. Commissioner Rolfe stated that this is true but the cities of Anoka and Andover do not have any plans as of yet. Chairperson Cook added that the community center plans for Elk River failed this fall. Rolfe stated that the City needs to gain feedback from the community to choose the facilities. Mr. Lacey asked if the City could place a positive spin on things by showing a correlation between the reduction in crime with the addition of a community centers for other cities. Chairperson Cook agreed and stated that the arts and programs involved with a community center are positive events that give Ramsey an identity and sense of community. Commissioner Asfahl asked where the committee is at this point in time. Commissioner Rolfe stated that them is a meeting next week with a representative from New Brighton and nothing will be done until the Council approves the committee's plans. Park and Recreation Commission/December 10, 1998 Page 3 of 5