Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 07/10/1997

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Case tt5: Request by City Administrator Ryan Schroeder to Discuss Tot Lot at Apple Ridge Mr. Chmielewski indicated there are currently negotiations and accompanying final procedures in process on an 83-acre parcel located close to the proposed Apple Ridge development. Question of need for a tot lot park within Apple Ridge was posed to Commission members for an approximated $15,000. Commissioner Johns responded funds are not available to develop a tot lot, however, if donations and/or unanticipated funds were made available, she would be in favor of a tot lot within Apple Ridge. Chairperson Cook added the small area in Apple Ridge is too small for even a tot lot. As well, he noted price comparison between mines to purchase 83 acres outside the MUSA versus a half- acre within the MUSA, plus accompanying costs associated with a tot lot (i.e. equipment). Commissioner Johns suggested using the approximated $15,000 to develop a trail leading to the 83- acre parcel currently in negotiations. Chairperson Cook noted a future possibility of establishing a tot lot in close proximity to Apple Ridge. Commissioner Johns reiterated her inclination to be in favor ora tot lot within Apple Ridge if the land and monies for development were donated. Chairperson Cook and Commissioner Rolfe countered citing future upkeep responsibilities similar to that of Bear Park. Motion by Commissioner Ostrum and seconded by Commissioner Johns reiterating the Commission's original plan with no development ora tot lot within Apple Ridge. Motion Carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Cook, Commissioners Ostrum, Johns, Asfahl, LaMere, and Rolfe. Voting No: None. Absent: Commissioner Droegemueller. COMMISSION INPUT Lights at Central Park (161 st& Armstrong) - Chairperson Cook was contacted by a resident living across from Central Park. Apparently, field lights are being left on after facility use by the RYAA. This resident indicated a willingness to turn offthe lights after events for the purposes of discouraging excessive late-night use of the park, and savings on utility bills. Commissioner Ostmm suggested the Commission draft a letter to the RYAA addressing this oversight. Mr. Riemer informed Commission members that a portion of the park's lights are on a timer system, whereas those that are being lef~ on require shutting off, manually. Purple Loostrife along pond at Emerald Park - Chairperson Cook brought this to Staff's attention. Park Signage - Commissioner LaMere has received citizen input about poor signage directing people to parks; especially those located within neighborhoods. He requested investigation about the possibility of additional signage to address this concern. Chairperson Cook responded brown signs on the main thoroughfares would be appropriate. Park and Recreation Commission/July 10, 1997 Page 4 of 5