03-03-2016 Parks & Rec minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION March 3, 2016 The Director stated the downward trend was something every city was dealing with. Horwath explained he would like to see the department get away from organizing opportunities and begin to support opportunities; allowing them to run at their own pace. Ray explained he thought the City should add more programs and continue developing new ones. Maida agreed the downward trend is apparent, and people are now stepping into parks more than they are signing up for programs. Horwath agreed and thought the department should focus on enhancing trail connections and promoting recreation for health and fitness. He explained the numbers show children are joining organized sports less and less so it is important to manage the resources the City has so as to create opportunities and encourage people to use them. Horwath noted the Commission has done wonderful work on enhancing Little Canada’s trail system over the years. He encouraged the Commission to think about continuing that around Gervais Lake. He compared the area to its potential naming Lake Phalen as an example. Maida explained the County had the opportunity to widen the pedestrian area on the north end of Gervais Lake but elected not to due to the high cost. Horwath explained it would be important to take advantage of the opportunities presented in the future in order to focus on access. Chair Miller suggested the Commission look to other Park and Recreation Commissions for ideas. The Director explained Katie McGinnity, the Recreation Supervisor, was at the meeting to share her input and relay the staff connection to her before his retirement. Bill Sanders, the Parks Consultant couldn’t attend the meeting tonight, but told the Director if there were any pressing park needs he could send a staff person from his company. The Director noted Sanders is working towards retirement and his company has been a part of every park development in the City since Spooner Park was dedicated in 1976. The Director explained to the Commission it would be important to continue the connection through and after Sanders retirement. Chair Miller suggested requesting a report from Sanders on the agenda for next month to address the tree re-plantings in the Parks and the buckthorn removal. The Director agreed there is money budgeted to work on those projects and they could be addressed at the next meeting. The Recreation Supervisor reported that the Spring Firearm Safety Class would begin next Wednesday. She explained the class would run for six weeks and the class was almost full. The Recreation Supervisor reported the next Market Place Morning Talk would take place at the Bingo Hall on March 9th from 9:30 to 10:30. The topic is dental health. OTHER BUSINESS