05-24-05 PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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PARKS, TRAILS AND RECREA nON COMMITTEE MEETING MAY 24, 2005 Page 3 of6 . 5. RECREATION UPDATE Mr. Moore provided the Committee with an update on the recreation activities: . Rain has wreaked havoc with all programs. Had a lot of cancellations on both adult and youth sports due to the weather. . Celebrating Arden Hills is coming up - Posters and tickets will be provided to Committee Members to sel1. Encouraged them to participate in the events and asked that they donate an hour or two at the event. 6. PARK TOBACCO POLICY - DISCUSSION Chair Henry stated that Committee Crassweller is not present and noted that he is not enthusiastic about the concept or proposed policy. He asked if what the Committee is considering is to possibly recommend to City Council that they adopt a new City ordinance or a policy that there would be no smoking allowed in parks or on trails. Committee Member McClung stated that there are two ways to consider noting that most Cities have opted to adopt a policy of no smoking in the public parks. He indicated that all Cities around Arden Hills have a no smoking policy in the parks. He explained that the rationale for an ordinance was to place more enforcement power and a monetary fee. He stated that this would . be voluntary enforcement. He noted that the results of a survey done by Brittany McFadden show that the policies are not keeping people from the parks and it is noted that the parks are much cleaner. He stated that the policy drafted would apply to City parks and trails. Mr. Moore noted that smoking is not allowed on City property and they have also implemented a no smoking or drinking policy with the Softball Teams. Committee Member McClung stated that he spoke with the Parks Director at the Cities of Shoreview, New Brighton and Roseville noting that two of the Cities have found the policy to be positive for the parks and residents continue to using their facilities. He stated that the Leagues have had no problems with enforcement or use of the parks. Committee Member Wheeler asked ifthis policy would also apply to chewing tobacco. Committee Member McClung stated that it is a tobacco product and would be include. He stated that many youth leagues already have policies on the use of chewing tobacco and reviewed. Committee Member McClung stated that the PACT youth group would provide the signs and are willing to help post them throughout the city at no expense. Council Liaison Larson suggested that the PACT youth group attend the next Council meeting to provide their presentation to Council. He stated that it would be very helpful and would show positive support for the policy. .