2015-04-07_PR Comm Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Becker-Finn voiced her concern for setting precedence by splitting the park and the o effects on more areas throughout the City. Newby inquired into a way of arriving at the preservation sense of the park without o dividing it up. An active discussion around the Commission table continued, with commissioners inquiring into how classifications of other parks around the City were recognized.  Gelbach commented that he views how the City cares for woodland areas as conservancy parks no matter what they are classified. Holt commented that he feels that reclassification does not affect how properties are o viewed and considered for development & management. Changing a classification does not have any impact on how a park is dealt with. All commissioners are concerned about our natural resources. Stoner summarized that the neighborhood is concerned about Twin Lakes and o impacts on Twin Lakes. And recognized the petition from the community and look to have future discussions on whether the commission should make a recommendation to the Council. Commission Recommendation:  Motion by Doneen, second by Gelbach, to accept the community petition.  Nomination passed unanimously. Lisa McCormick asked for information on the park dedication process and recent actions by the Commission. Anfang recognized a commentary from Rita Mix supporting the petition submitted by McCormick. CEDARHOLM GOLF COURSE DISCUSSION 6. Golf Course Superintendent joined the Commission Table for the Golf Course discussion. Brokke summarized the upcoming discussion explaining capital needs, shift in course usage and Council requests to review operations, uses, financial position, capital improvement needs and make a recommendation. Cedarholm was built in 1959, it was acquired by the City in 1967 and operates as an enterprise fund. Golf Course staff are shared with other areas within the Parks & Recreation Department including turf management and marketing services. Commissioners questioned why we can’t just raise fees to expand revenues. McDonagh explained that our fees are based on the local market for similar courses and the philosophy to serve the local golf community. We achieve the revenues we do because of our strength in rounds played. If we raise green fees do we chase away the young golfers or the family golfing together.  Gelbach commented that an additional $2/round will balance the budget. How do we recognize that increase without raising the fees. Holt inquired into bringing together a brainstorming group from a range of industry professionals to share information. PARK and RECREATION RENEWAL PROGRAM STATUS 7.  4 Park Buildings are completed and opened for use, 2 more buildings are coming online in April.