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MINUTES <br />CITY COUNCIL <br />SEPTEMBER 9, 2015 <br />recreation needs so that LCRA can decide where its fundraising money is <br />best used. With regard to reviewing alternative uses of parks facilities, <br />Joriman suggested utilizing outdoor rink space for lacrosse clinics. He <br />also indicated that when he was campaigning he heard from people about <br />offerings they would like to see such as pickleball, which is being offered <br />in surrounding communities. Joriman indicated that as the community <br />gets older, the programming has to change to accommodate the aging <br />population. He did note, however, that several younger families recently <br />moved into his neighborhood and about half are either Hispanic or <br />Hmong. <br />Keis asked if LCRA was looking to do a large project or several smaller <br />projects. Joriman indicated that many ideas are discussed at LCRA <br />meetings. He felt it easier to help fund a smaller project, but indicated <br />they would consider a larger project also. He noted the need to redo the <br />field at Gilbertson field as an example. <br />Keis informed those present that the oversite for parks maintenance is now <br />under the direction of the Public Works Director. However, the Parks & <br />Recreation Director has scheduling responsibilities. <br />Maida asked the timeline in play for the reorganization of the Parks & <br />Recreation Department. Keis indicated that the preliminary 2016 Budget <br />must be certified to the County by the end of September. He noted that at <br />this time the projected increase to the levy is over 6%, which is not an <br />acceptable number. The final levy must be certified by the end of <br />December. <br />Torkelson felt that the Parks & Recreation Department and LCRA needed <br />to have a planning session. He suggested that the Department may have to <br />function in a reduced capacity for a year, but as a 3 to 5 year plan is put in <br />place, it may become evident that the cuts will not be permanent. <br />Keis noted that LCRA's mission is to support youth activities which <br />means support through funding for facilities and programming. Keis <br />stated that while LCRA would want to be informed of what is going on, he <br />did not think their mission has been to do planning for the department. <br />The Director indicated that LCRA has provided ideas to the Department <br />relative to programming and park facilities. Keis felt that going forward <br />there should be a committee of including the Parks & Recreation <br />Department, the Parks & Recreation Commission, and representation from <br />LCRA to do a 3 to 5 year plan. Montour agreed, but indicated that that <br />would be a big committee and suggested that a couple of Council <br />Members serve on the committee along with representatives of the Parks <br />& Rec Commission and LCRA. <br />7 <br />