2013-04-02_PR_Comm Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Referencing the meeting summaries, Doneen mentioned the overall appearance on the popularity of internal park trails and how they may claim some dollars from the pathways and trails Renewal Program budget and should be considered by the Natural Resources and Trails Subcommittee (NRATS). OTHER Commissioners discussed and commented on the preliminary plans in general and the appearance of confusion on the scope of the specific renewal projects. Schroeder indicated that each preliminary plan creates a conceptual “big picture” including the renewal program. They also help to identify other potential issues and ideas that may be able to be addressed with the renewal program at no cost or very low cost. It also continues to build on a vision for the future. After discussion, it was suggested that all preliminary plans include a call out to the Renewal projects that are funded so that people understand better what is being done as a part of the Renewal phase and what is not. There was also interest in providing an estimate for projects that are outside the scope of the Renewal Program but are included in the preliminary plans. Doneen indicated that the NRATS met once since the last commission meeting and reviewed feedback from the B2 sidewalk meeting. They are in the process of developing a frequently asked questions list for this project. He also pointed out that B2 is a significant part of the Renewal Program budget but internal park trails look pretty popular so may hold off on other prioritizing of projects to see what all comes out of the preliminary park plans. Reservoir Woods meeting will be on April 13, 2013 to discuss Natural Resource Projects and in particular a pilot buckthorn project that will be happening soon, weather permitting. The group is waiting for the Natural Resource Consultant to be on board. Staff reviewed the process and outlined the next step from the preliminary plans reviewed tonight. They will be brought to the City Council in May for their review prior to the preparation of final construction documents, then construction to begin in the fall. Following the completion of preliminary plans, the next neighborhood interaction will include a construction inform notice to the nearby park neighborhoods. Another set of preliminary plans will be brought to the May commission meeting for review. Staff provided an update on the selection process for the Playground Vendor and the Natural Resource Consultant. Both are in the final clarification stages with a recommendation expected to be made to the City Council in April. Thanks to Commissioner Wall for being part of the playground process and Commissioner Doneen for being part of the natural resource process. Wall commented on how the process requires vendors to be diligent and that they clearly understand the project and what is expected of them. PARK BOARD DISCUSSION 6. D. Holt introduced the topic and indicated that this was a topic of interest by the City Council and that it is was important that the Commission provide an analysis and recommendation to the City Council. Wall indicated that he, Simbeck and staff have been working to compile information. He reviewed the draft #1 research and analysis report dated 4/2/13 that included the background, history, park board characteristics, a start of a pros and cons list. He also mentioned that he