05-09-2017 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION May 9, 2017 the Commission to choose. In addition, he proposed adding a bench for the pet owners and a water source for the dogs. The Community Services Manager suggested using a Gatorade jug that could be replenished every few days for water. He asked the Commission whether the dog park should utilize the skating rink lights. Horwath asked if that would require a staff person at the warming house. The Community Services Manager indicated it would. Horwath proposed not utilizing the lighting since the park would only be open in the summer months when it stays lighter for a longer amount of time. Horwath agreed a bench would be needed. Schletty felt a water source would be unnecessary for a pilot project. The Community Services Manager noted a jug that could be refilled would be an inexpensive alternative to a drinking fountain. Horwath suggested including a comment box at the dog park so people can share their ideas and concerns. Chu asked how residents would be informed of this opportunity. The Community Services Manager explained he would like to include it in the June newsletter. He shared some of the potential rules with the Commission noting other cities had suggested enforcing a rule of no more than two dogs per handler, a maximum number of dogs allowed in the park, children must be accompanied by an adult, and also rules against littering, and information on contacting 911 if a dog becomes aggressive or if someone is bit. Chu suggested shortening the rule list and categorizing the items to make them more readable. The Community Services Manager explained he would like to narrow the list down to four to five rules. Schletty asked if the rule about having the dogs licensed within Little Canada could be more general to allow people from neighboring cities to use the dog park as well. The Community Services Manager noted it could be changed. Horwath made a motion to move forward with the dog park at the Demont Ice Rink, without lighting, including benches, including the water jug if feasible, and have staff continue working on the sign. Sullivan seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. The Community Services Manager reported the City has budgeted $35,000 to pour concrete, get black vinyl fencing around the field, and add a drinking fountain. He explained the work would begin just after the baseball season and Canadian Days. The Community Services Manager stated the Little Canada Recreation Association was planning to contribute some money for the project as well. The total cost would be around $43,000. Waite asked the Commission if the Gilbertson Field plaque would be replaced. The Community Services Manager stated the Recreation Supervisor was in the process of replacing the plaque on a material that would be less likely to be stolen. GILBERTSON FIELD UPDATE