07-23-2002 PTRC Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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Arden Hills Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes 2 June 11, 2002 • Mr. Moore referenced the Park Fund donation from St. Mary's Romanian Orthodox Church and St. Katherine's Ukrainian Church. B. Open Discussion—Park Committee Funding Priorities Chair Straumann referenced Committee Member Thompson's email suggesting discussion of the park sign recommendations and asked Mr. Moore to clarify the budget and costs for the signs. Mr. Moore referenced Park Fund 227 stating that the fund has approximately $500,000.00 available. He stated that the money could be used for items approved by the Committee. He explained that the Committee's approval would then be presented to City Council for final approval and explained the process to the Committee. He clarified that this fund is different from the General Fund or CIP noting that the advantage of the Park Fund, with Council approval, they could spend all $500,000.00 by the end of year. He further stated that it provides a unique advantage and explained that once it is gone the Committee would have to go through the allocation process. He stated that if the Committee decides that they would like to pursue the sign project he would then get three estimates to present to the Committee for consideration. He provided the Committee with samples of the signs for their review. Committee Member Crassweller stated that he thinks they are doing this backwards. He explained that they would have to ask first what trail connections are necessary to link the • Community. Chair Straumann asked him to clarify what he believes is backward. Committee Member Crassweller clarified that they need to determine their priorities stating that they, as a Committee, should decide first if they want to spend the dollars on signs, a trail connection or park improvements. He further explained that once they determine their priorities then they could begin to make decisions on projects within each priority. He asked if the citizens would get more use out of the signs or by placing a trail connection. Committee Member Thompson agreed that there are several projects that could be completed with the funding. She noted what the Committee has accomplished in the past year in putting together their recommendations for the Comprehensive Plan. She stated that they discussed, as a Committee, ways that allow the residents to see what they have in the way of parks. She explained that many of the residents do not know where all the parks and trails are located. She agreed that they should discuss these issues and determine their priorities as a Committee. She stated that it is critical that the citizens and visitors can see what parks and trails are available in Arden Hills. She stated that the park signs would improve the visibility. Committee Member Crassweller agreed that they should have this discussion. He stated that they couldn't make this decision until they have truly determined their priorities as a Committee and what they want to do with the funding. Chair Straumann clarified that the trail connection for the Mounds View trail system is over $600,000.00.