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MINUTES <br />PARKS & REC COMMISSION <br />JULY 1, 2021 <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />3 <br /> <br />Commissioner Ray asked for input on the comments that were received against the water feature. <br /> <br />Ms. Dahlheimer stated that those responses were not detailed and simply stated they did not want <br />a water feature. She stated that through the engagement process and feedback received, there has <br />been more support for more naturalized features including the water feature. <br /> <br />Commissioner Ray commented that while the bright-colored splash pads draw kids in, he is <br />drawn more to the naturalized water feature style. <br /> <br />Commissioner Chu stated that the more natural features also allow adults to sit and enjoy that <br />natural environment. <br /> <br />Commissioner Horwath noted that the Minnesota Zoo has a more natural splash pad area that <br />children enjoy. <br /> <br />Commissioner Abruzzese stated that Spooner Park is more natural in setting with lots of trees, <br />but Pioneer Park is more open with athletic fields and wanted to ensure that the park is <br />thematically consistent. She stated that she does like the more natural water feature as the water <br />would not be running in the colder months and therefore the area could still be useful in the other <br />months rather than a bright feature that does not serve a purpose when not in use. She stated that <br />she likes the water jets that shoot up. <br /> <br />Commissioner Schletty agreed that they have discussed a multi-purpose area that could be used <br />for another purpose when the water feature is not on. <br /> <br />Chair Miller agreed that the flow should remain consistent throughout the park. <br /> <br />Commissioner Ray commented that while there are not mature trees for shade, bringing in <br />natural rock features would help to break that up. <br /> <br />Commissioner Horwath noted that he recently attended an event in another community that has a <br />splash pad. He noted that the city is having problems with pumps not working. He stated that he <br />would like to see some guarantees that that equipment would run well, and that City staff would <br />be comfortable with the maintenance that would be needed to keep it running well. <br /> <br />Mr. Shields stated that trail lighting was not specifically included in the survey but reviewed <br />some of the comments around lighting. He stated that there would be an opportunity to do a <br />banner or logo incorporated on different elements to carry through an overall flow. <br /> <br />Commissioner Hipp asked if the trails would be widened. <br />