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PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES FEB. 14, 1994 MEMBERS PRESENT: Jackie Benson, Alan Weinand, Carol Weisberg, Steve Schugel, Morris Nicholson, Carol Kriegler, Parks Rec Director, Jan Gibson Talbot, Council Liaison APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF: January 10, 1994 Nancy Knutsen outlined her ideas for establishing a community or neighbor -based indoor playground. An indoor playground would consist of a large room with toys, games and simple play equipment. The site would provide a place for parents to bring infants, toddlers and pre schoolers to play together and get to know one another. Members present welcomed the proposal and supported further investigation of the project. Discussion centered around potential sites for the playground (city hall council chambers, park buildings, local church, Falcon Heights school, etc.); need for establishing use policies and a possible parent advisory board; and other potential areas of concern. Carol Kriegler read a letter from Jyneen Thatcher regarding her concerns as she was unable to be present at the meeting. It was suggested that the first and next step is to determine the level of interest and need within the city for such a playground. Carol Kriegler and Nan Knutsen agreed to develop a city newsletter article designed to (1) inform residents of the potential of such a playground; (2) to provide for the opportunity to indicate an interest in using the playground and (3) to provide for the opportunity to indicate an interest in participating in the planning and development of a playground. Morrie Nicholson suggested that this potential project be managed in a similar manner to past park improvement projects with the establishment of a committee of interested persons who then report back to the commission with specific recommendations. Carol Weisberg recommended that city staff begin to explore possible regulations and licensing requirements for such a facility. Carol Kriegler gave a brief report on the city's previous bike safety rodeos held annually in the spring up until a few years ago. The event consisted of a safety talk by a safety education officer, film, and a "rodeo" of stations designed to teach bike safety skills. The commission supported the re- establishment of a bike safety program of some sort although there was concern about the potential date of May 14. This might be in conflict with a district -wide girl scouting event. Alan Weinand suggested that the Minnesota Head Injury Association be contacted as they are a potential resource for program curriculums and ideas. It was also suggested that the fairgrounds and university campus be explored as potential sites for the event.