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Minutes of Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting, October 27 <br /> Page 2 <br /> • The six week program, for ages 4 to 12, was held at Floral, Cummings, Hazelnut, <br /> and Perry Parks, and staffed by four extremely competent, college and <br /> above-aged instructors, with two high school age assistants. 238 children <br /> registered, an increase of 25 over 1987, and attendance was steady. Programs <br /> were conducted at the parks two hours per day for two days a week, and <br /> "Adventure Trips" to various Twin City attractions were held on Fridays. Craft <br /> activities, games, and various special events made the park sessions enjoyable. <br /> Comments from parents of participants this year were extremely positive. The <br /> response indicated that residents very much appreciate this program. <br /> Fall Program Report <br /> This year's fall program activities were expanded to include after-school <br /> activities at Island Lake School. About half of the Arden Hills' elementary <br /> youngsters attend Valentine Hills School, and the other half Island Lake, so <br /> although the school is located in Shoreview, fairness to residents dictated the <br /> programs be expanded to this school. The programs have been well-received. <br /> Committee asked Buckley's views on non-resident fees for Shoreview (and other) <br /> participants in the programs. Buckley stated that it has been Shoreview's <br /> experience (in charging non-resident fees) that the increase in income in youth <br /> programs is minimal; balanced against the good will created by not imposing <br /> this fee, felt strongly non-resident fees would be detrimental overall. <br /> 1987 Park Development Report <br /> • A copy of Buckley's report, listing improvements planned for 1987, and those <br /> accomplished, along with costs, is attached. A summary of deviations from the <br /> plan, and reasons for these, follows: <br /> Hazelnut Park - Buckley had recommended $5,000 for grading the area from the <br /> Church parking lot to the shelter and play equipment, to improve its <br /> appearance. During the Parks Committee tour this summer, the members felt they <br /> liked the appearance as it was, and asked this not be done. <br /> Sampson Park - Time did not allow the color-coating of the hard surface area <br /> planned. It will be included in 1988 plans. <br /> Arden Oaks - A backstop, picnic tables, and picnic shelter were planned in this <br /> park. After residents expressed opposition to the backstop and picnic shelter, <br /> several meetings were held with them; agreement was reached to install the <br /> backstop and a hard court area, and forego construction of a picnic shelter. <br /> The shelter ordered for this area will be put in the new North Snelling Park <br /> next summer. <br /> Trail Resurfacing - The path connecting Norma Ave. to Floral Park was completed <br /> and blacktopped. Other trail projects have not at this time been completed as <br /> much as had been hoped, because of a lack of time. The Parks personnel will <br /> try to do as much more as possible this fall. Committee members present all <br /> favored more emphasis on trail construction and maintenance, and urged Buckley <br /> to put higher priority on trail development. <br /> • <br />