2012-04-03_PR_ Comm Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Staff reminded the Commission and the Community that, in anticipation of the Renewal Program, the Park Improvement Program (PIP) had been substantially reduced in 2012 not allowing for a typical PIP project year. Doneen mentioned his desire to tap into the huge volunteer resource. Specifically, in the time of waiting for a court decision, are there possible projects that can be done to maintain the community enthusiasm. Doneen volunteered to frame possibilities that could limit staff resources and costs, provide training and be done safely. For example, with buckthorn eradication being of extreme interest to the community, could there be a smaller project area that could be done to keep people engaged while waiting for a decision. Commissioner Doneen will draft a proposal for staff and commission review. Ristow commented on the reduction of staff and resources to the parks and recreation system making it more difficult to accomplish natural resources tasks like buckthorn removal. It is not only the removal of buckthorn, but substantial resources are needed for disposal. Staff reminded the Commission that the full time park supervisor position that handled these efforts in the past was eliminated from the department's budget leaving a substantial void. The Renewal Program was intended to help in this area. Wall summarized some of the key items outlined by the Commission and staff that should be addressed including awareness, safety, proper training, proper supervision and disposal. 6. DIRECTORS REPORT o Brokke described the City Council Work Plan that was included in the packet. It is work in progress and begins with the community aspirations followed up with the existing work plan and short term and long term plans. Eventually when the City Council completes their work, it is anticipated to be incorporated into Commission goals and individual department's strategic plans. Following were some general comments: o Chair Etten commented on the importance of the goals reflecting parks and recreation as an integral part of the community. o Azer commented on her observation of the important role of the parks in the community and how they are intermingled in many sections of the work plan. Much work has been done by the Commission to get people involved. o Doneen encouraged the city to identify the specific need for the shoreland and erosion control ordinance item and contact the area hydrologist to work on it rather than wait for the DNR. The DNR is not anticipating doing anything at this point. o Doneen commented on the overall interweaving of parks and recreation in many of the items, whether they are called out specifically or not. He assumed parks and recreation staff would be involved and that the budget would follow the direction. o Ristow commented on the importance of and the high use of our parks and the need to keep them vibrant as gas prices are increasing and people staying home more. o Doneen commented on how parks and recreation recently touched him and his family as his son registered for the high school disc golf program. Specifically, if there was not a disc golf course, there would be no program. o Brokke distributed the 2011 annual report and thanked Jill Anfang for her work. Chair Etten asked Commissioners to review the report and come back to the next meeting with any questions. o Roseville Parks and Recreation will be providing recreation opportunities to the City of Lauderdale again in 2012 through a Recreation Agreement.