Minutes - Parks and Recreation Commission - 09/11/1997

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Commissioner Droegemueller pointed out that the soccer program is the fastest growing and there is an immediate need for more soccer fields. He noted that the development of Alpine Park will fulfill the need for baseball fields and, perhaps, the Central Park field can be used for softball in addition to additional soccer fields. Commissioner Droegemueller noted that 1,485 children are involved through these programs. Commissioner Ostrum noted an influx had been anticipated with the new grade school, but it appears it has leveled off or not occurred. Commissioner Droegemueller explained that when the elementary school was constructed, the School District realigned the boundaries so some Ramsey children go to school in Anoka. He estimated that 100 to 150 Ramsey children participate in the Anoka program. Margaret Connoly, representing Northern Lights Soccer Association, reported the RYAA turned some children away from the fall soccer program because Ramsey does not have enough fields. These children were directed towards the Anoka program. Also, the RYAA does not offer anything for 11 year olds so they are also sent to the Anoka program. Ms. Connoly advised they need to start working out the logistics and which parks will be used so parents do not have their children at more than one park, if possible. Commissioner Droegemueller noted a fall program does not exist in Community Ed and their spring program ends in May, at the end of the school term. Chairperson Cook stated he believes the majority of the growth will be from new housing starts so the programs will continue to grow. Commissioner Ostrum inquired whether the Commission needs to review the projections made to determine whether they are adequate or over projected. Commissioner Droegemueller stated he does not believe the Commission over projected but, perhaps, were over excited about the potential growth related to the new school. He advised that the largest shortfall is with fall soccer facilities but this will improve with the development of the new Community Park. Commissioner Ostrum commented that the Commission, as a group, needs to be intelligent in determining if they over estimated and, if so, to look at it again and change priorities. He inquired about trends beyond next year and if the baseball field at Alpine Park should be redeveloped into a soccer field. It was noted that the soccer field at Alpine Park should be completed this year and available for use next year. Commissioner Droegemueller asked if it is possible to use soccer fields at the school, even if they are not irrigated. Chairperson Cook pointed out that there is another fifty percent of Ramsey's children to consider as well as adults and the elderly. Mr. Boos stated he believes the City provides a good balance at this point. Park and Recreation Commission/September 11, 1997 Page 4 of 6