11-02-2017 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION November 2, 2017 throughout all of the parks. He suggested the Commission continue to consider these concepts, but plan to upgrade the playground and complete other prioritized projects right away. Councilman Fischer explained it would take time to develop a theme, and it should be discussed in more depth. Horwath suggested arranging tours of themed parks in Minneapolis. Chu suggested a public art theme throughout the parks. Horwath spoke of Lake Nokomis Park and a natural playground concept. He also liked the idea of reusing innovative park components, like a rocket ship he had played on when he was growing up which can still be found in that same park. Darling liked the natural playground concept and public art concept. Horwath explained these themes could be integrated through a “Little Canada is” theme that has elements that explain concepts like access, nature, environment, and health. Ray suggested holding a workshop to discuss these topics in more depth. Chair Miller suggested building a themed parks concept into a long term plan. Chair Miller made a motion to look at playground replacement options for Pioneer Park and to consider the integration of a theme into the overall park. Ray seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. Ray suggested having a workshop to discuss park themes. Councilman Fischer suggested the Commission develop an approach to implementing a theme with the consideration for additional public input, if desired. He explained this would help refine the idea before asking for additional input. Chair Miller asked if SEH could come to the workshop to help formulate the plan. The Community Services Manager stated Kost and Springer would be in attendance at the next meeting and he would ask if they could also attend the workshop. Chair Miller stated there would be a workshop at 5:30 on December 7th. The Community Services Manager reported a study on dog park usage at the Demont Rink was conducted and approximately five dogs use the park per day. A map of dog parks in Ramsey County was presented. The Community Services Manager stated it was staff’s recommendation to continue monitoring dog park usage at the Demont Rink over the next year, before creating a permanent off-leash dog park. The Community Services Manager stated he would like to advertise the dog park more next spring to raise awareness of the opportunity. Horwath suggested sending out targeted mailings to licensed dog owners throughout the City. Ray suggested advertising at dog related retail stores. Chair Miller asked what the average size of a dog park is related to the size of the community. The Community Services Manager stated Lauderdale used a hockey rink, but now has a fenced in area next to the dog park which is about the same size. He explained Arden Hills uses a field and also has a hockey rink location. Chu asked when the dog park PERMANENT OFF-LEASH DOG PARK DISCUSSION