03-02-2017 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION March 2, 2017 last meeting. The Recreation Supervisor thought the Commission had decided to leave the word as is because the context was enough to clarify the definition. Schletty agreed and pointed out there was a map to explain as well. Sullivan reported she had visited the sight and noticed the Lake Street access had a utility pole near the access point. She asked the City Administrator if the existing utilities would pose potential hardships if the project was approved. The City Administrator noted there could be obstacles, and explained property owners may be reluctant to the project. Schletty asked if the City Engineer would be available for questions at a future meeting if there was a public hearing. The City Administrator noted it would depend on the survey responses and the direction the Commission decided to go. Chair Miller asked if anyone could answer the survey. The City Administrator said there would be an article with a website link in the Le Petit, and respondents could use that link to take the survey. He clarified there would not be a paper copy of the survey in the Le Petit. Horwath made a motion to approve the survey with the specified changes discussed. Darling seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. Chair Miller explained the Associate Planner submitted a memo regarding the Parkland Acquisition Fee for the Cash for Homes townhome development. Chair Miller reported he had visited the site and the development would not pose an obstacle to any future park plans. He agreed with the monetary amount of $49,000 to be paid to the fund by Cash for Homes. The City Administrator clarified that the development plan may change, so the 14 units proposed currently may differ on the final plans. He noted the motion should be based on the charge per unit. Schletty made a motion to recommend to the Council that the Cash for Homes townhome development be charged $3,500 per unit,to go towards the Park Land Acquisition Fund. Horwath seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. The City Administrator reported that two of the 2017 goals were community engagement and park development, so he thought the next best step would be to review the Parks Master Plan, which was last updated in 2008. He explained that to update the plan there may be a need for a consultant. The City Administrator noted that with Bill Sanders retirement, the City could hire his firm, Loucks and Associates, or look for a new consulting firm to garner a new perspective for park development. Horwath agreed it may be a good time to look at other consulting firms, but noted Bill Sanders’ contributions to the parks system have been an invaluable asset to the community. Chair Miller agreed now is a good time to update the Parks Plan and noted a new perspective may bring new ideas. PARK DEDICATION CHARGE FOR CASH FOR HOMES TOWNHOME DEVELOPMENT 2017 GOAL - REVIEW PARKS MASTER PLAN