09-15-15 PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes September 15, 2015 Page 3 C. Basketball System Installation Staff Liaison Grant said she has been mailing four letters every month and the $2,500 received from Land O’Lakes is the only donation received thus far. Committee Member Van Valkenburg asked if we could pursue the original large companies and refine the letter to include pictures of the new basketball system. Acting Chair Straumann asked if we need this replacement at Cummings Park to which Committee Member Van Valkenburg replied that two are needed there for a total of $5,000. Acting Chair Straumann suggested going back to Boston Scientific since they are big users of Cummings Park. Staff Liaison Grant said that Boston Scientific may be interested in donating if they know Land O’ Lakes has made a donation. She said there is a write up in the City newsletter acknowledging Land O’ Lakes’ donation. She also said parts have been ordered and the Public Works guys will be removing the old system but that Webber Recreational will install the new system . It is hoped that all parks in the city will have the same system in the future. Council Liaison Holmes asked what the benefit is of these replacements. Staff Liaison Grant said the new systems have little upkeep and last up to 20 years versus the old systems that have a life span of about 17 years. She stated that backboards are wearing, nets are bad and poles are rusting. She also said that with the new system, everything is easily replaceable versus the old system which had to be completely taken down for any type of replacement. Committee Member Van Valkenburg stated he and Nancy went to each park and rated what needs to be replaced and how soon. It was determined Ingerson, Cummings and Hazelnut Parks all need replacements, but there was only enough money for one. Staff Liaison Grant stated two systems are needed at both parks for a total of $10,000. Discussion continued, recapping once again approaching Boston Scientific and also the businesses on Round Lake Road, including Holiday, and providing them a picture and more information about the new systems. D. Arden Hills Foundation Donations Staff Liaison Grant said that Nancy asked how much money is in the Foundation under Don Messerly’s name and what the Committee would like to do. She also spoke with Bob Mullen about bringing mulch over to the garden. Mr. Mullen said he contacted the U of M and they quoted him $12.50 per yard. Joe Mooney of Public Works said he can get mulch from the same company for $8.00 or $9.00 per yard. Staff Liaison Grant discussed this with Mr. Mullen and will coordinate purchasing mulch with Joe Mooney if the PTRC is okay with this. A discussion ensued about placing some type of ID tag on the various flowers in the gardens and options to create these tags. Council Liaison Holmes stated Don is already memorialized in Valentine Park and suggested Crepeau Park. Staff Liaison Grant indicated the benches are the City’s and cost $500 each. She said a brass plaque is $150 but there is another plaque made of a special black, outdoor material with white engraving that does not wear or fade and really stands out. This particular style plaque is inexpensive and feels it may be better in a nature type setting. Acting Chair Straumann asked if there is a consensus try to get a newer style plaque.