2009-03-04 P & R Minutes Approved

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Parks & Recreation Committee Meeting Minutes 03-04-09 Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park. Ms. Guimont said the YMCA Staff felt the Park Play Days at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park went very well last year and were enthusiastic about doing the program again this summer. There were 23 children the first session and 18 the second session, mostly younger children in the 4 – 6 year old age group. The skate board program offered for older children was not a well received addition to the summer program so it was not added this year. Ms. Guimont said the Wargo Nature Center Staff who attended the Park Play Days with various presentations in 2008 was popular and they are trying to incorporate that into this summer’s program, but Wargo has budget/staff cuts also and this may not be possible. The YMCA has a more efficient, centralized marketing system in place this year which will enable them to more easily get information regarding programs to a larger group in a timelier, cost efficient manner. Park Play Days is advertised in the current publication. The program in 2008 cost $1,500 with the City of Centerville funding $1,000. Ms. Guimont stated that while the programs are not intended to make money, their intention is certainly to break even. To decrease costs for 2009 the registration fee was raised by $10 for the 7 week program, they will only need limited supplies as that cost was incurred in 2008 and they eliminated snacks. The YMCA is asking the City of Centerville to fund the program with $1,200. Chairperson Seeley stated she felt that was quite reasonable. Ms. Guimont also asked the committee to think about anything the committee might need that the YMCA staff could help with, such as advertising. Chairperson Seeley mentioned the 8K Run/Walk. Ms. Stephan will email that information to Ms. Guimont. Mr. Mark Statz, City Engineer, Trail Project Discussion & Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park Pond Update Mr. Mark Statz, City Engineer was in attendance to discuss the Trail Project with the committee. Also in attendance from Bonestroo were Mr. Geoff Martin, Landscape Architect, Urban Design and Mr. Gary Morien, Bridge Design. Mr. Statz apologized in advance for the short notice and hectic schedule on this project and explained the haste as essentially the Transportation Enhancement Trail Grant the City has received in the amount of $750,000 for 2012 has the possibility of being moved to 2009. Mr. Statz explained an application for Federal Stimulus Package money was submitted for this project. If we are selected, it could move our project into 2009 funding (currently, we are programmed for 2012 money) as well as provide grant money to cover the local matching funds of about $250,000. At the February 25, 2009 City Council meeting, Council authorized Bonestroo to proceed with plans and specs, as well as permitting activities in order to move the project closer to “shovel ready” status. The committee and Bonestroo representatives discussed the trail-side park, pedestrian bridge and general project issues. There are a lot of stipulations and deadlines that go with Federal grant money and the City has approximately 1 to 1 ½ month to design the project and get the documents submitted. There are about 15 easements the City will need to acquire which is already being worked on by Mr. Dallas Larson, City Administrator. Mr. Statz asked the committee to meet again in 2 weeks. Council Member Lee said the Centerville Lions would also like to meet with the committee to discuss the 8K Run/Walk being held during Fete 2 of 7