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Bear Lake County Park, Lake McCarrons County Park and Battle Creek Waterworks. In response to <br /> questions from Commission members, he noted that, based on swimmer activity, the department would <br /> • strongly recommend lifeguard services be provided at these facilities, plus Tony Schmidt County Park <br /> and Snail Lake Regional Park. Lake Josephine County Park will be closed in 2005 for reconstruction; <br /> however, staff believes that lifeguard services should be provided at this location in the future. <br /> The Commission discussed the growing backlog of lifecycle rehabilitation and maintenance throughout <br /> the parks and recreation system. Mr. Mack noted that the County Budget Committee had considerable <br /> discussion about this unfunded need during the department's budget hearing. The County Board <br /> members recognize the need to fund predictable lifecycle maintenance in order to protect the county's <br /> investment in improvements and maintain service levels. Following considerable discussion <br /> regarding the proposed 2005 operating budget, expenditures and fee revenues, it was moved by <br /> Mr. Jenni, seconded by Mr. Straumann, that the Commission acknowledges the challenges <br /> facing the County Board in financing county services; however,the Commission recommends <br /> the following: <br /> 1. The 2005 operating budget levy for the Parks and Recreation Department should be <br /> increased to provide lifeguard services at the five busiest beaches (Snail Lake Regional <br /> Park, Tony Schmidt County Park, Long Lake Regional Park,White Bear Lake County Park <br /> and Lake McCarrons County Park, as well as Battle Creek Waterworks); and <br /> 2. The County Board should begin financing a capital asset preservation program to <br /> maintain the integrity and serviceability of parks and recreation buildings, grounds and <br /> facilities. <br /> Furthermore, the Commission stands ready to assist the County Board in further evaluation of <br /> maintenance and operation financing options to maintain high-quality public services, including <br /> potential revenue enhancements. Motion carried. <br /> TAMARACK NATURE CENTER PROGRAMS <br /> Ms. Yungers and Ms. Oltman provided an overview of Tamarack Nature Center programs and proposed <br /> facility enhancements, including interactive displays proposed for funding by the Legislative Commission <br /> on Minnesota Resources (LCMR). <br /> INTINERARY FOR SEPTEMBER PARKS AND RECREATION TOUR <br /> Mr. Mack asked Commission members for suggestions regarding the upcoming Commission tour. <br /> Commission members suggested touring Keller Regional Park (discuss redevelopment plans), Pleasant <br /> Ice Arena (see improvements made to accommodate St. Paul Figure Skating Club), Lake Gervais <br /> County Park and Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park. Staff will prepare a tour itinerary that includes a <br /> visit to each of these locations. <br /> DIRECTOR'S REPORT <br /> Mr. Mack reported that the city of Shoreview intends to appoint a citizen task force to review issues <br /> associated with the proposed band shell to be financed by the Guidant Foundation. Mr. Straumann has <br /> been recommended for appointment to the task force to represent the Ramsey County Parks and <br /> Recreation Commission. It is expected that the task force will begin its work in early September. <br /> REPORTS FROM CHAIR AND OTHER COMMISSION MEMBERS <br /> None <br /> ADJOURNMENT <br /> Upon appropriate motion, the meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. <br /> • Greg Mack <br /> 2 <br />