CC 02-26-1996 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

I I .e I . . . . . I. . I . . . . I .e . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 26. 1996 4 installation costs, which will total approximately $16,500, as well as preparing the site and providing handicapped surfacing. She stated that the committee researched other cities' park donations, and reported that Falcon Heights donated $5,000 each to Falcon Heights and Brimhall Elementary, and St. Cloud donated $5,000 to Madison Elementary. Ms. Horton invited the City of Arden Hills to be a major contributor to Valentine Hills Elementary School playstmcture. Kathy Johnson, 3700 Chatham Circle, thanked the Council for the opportunity to speak. She stated that the Valentine Hills Park is used by the community for activities such as baseball, picnics, park plays, etc. Ms. Johnson stated that the Parks and Recreation department schedules activities and events at the Valentine Hills Elementary School as well. She continued that the current playground is not safe, as the wood structure causes splinters and is in need of repair. Ms. Johnson stated the community has committed financial support, and encouraged the Council to reconsider their donation as well. Barb Windmar, 3719 Chatham Court, stated that Valentine Hills Elementary School is used by families for picnics, Easter egg hunts, baseball, and other activities, and that teachers bring their children to the park as well. Ms. Windmar asked the Council to reconsider their donation to the park project. Susan Johnson, 3641 Snelling Avenue North, stated she wanted to emphasize the partnership between Arden Hills Parks and Recreation and the Valentine Hills School, as they hold events such as t-ball, track, and other activities. Ms. Johnson noted that the school district has not charged the Parks and Recreation department for the costs of school monitors, and the school has contributed to the paving of city walkways to the park. Ms. Johnson asked the Council to reconsider their donation to the park project. Mayor Probst opened for Council discussion. He stated he was not in attendance at the worksession where the amount of the donation was determined. Mayor Probst stated that while the staff recommendation was well considered, in light of the improvements being made at Perry Park, he would like the Council to consider increasing the contribution amount to Valentine Hills Elementary School PT A to as much as $5,000. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she had issue with the original request for $10,000 because of everything else that was occurring in the City. She stated the suggested $500 donation came from the Parks and Recreation Committee, and much discussion was held at the worksession regarding this request. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that Perry Park is the first priority at this time.