08-05-2021 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PARKS & REC COMMISSION AUGUST 5, 2021 4 elementary school float and met an art teacher that participated in the park project. She stated that the teacher had positive things to say about the University of Minnesota students. Commissioner Hipp commented that the relationship should continue with new opportunities for engagement. She stated that she attempts to visit parks on different walking and running trips. She stated that there were a lot of compliments received about Spooner Park during Canadian Days. She noted that there is still room at that park to add additional concepts, such as mountain bike tracks. She stated that she signed up for the pickleball classes and is excited for that to start. She asked if there is a plan for the sign for the nature play area. The Community Services Manager confirmed that staff plan to make that sign as time permits. Commissioner Hipp stated that there were a lot of people at Thunder Bay looking for the medallion. She asked if there would be opportunities to get more features into the parks by offering naming rights for donations. The Community Services Manager stated that people donate benches that have their names on them. He stated that if someone donated a playground or large amenity, he would believe their name could be displayed. Commissioner Hipp commented that a lot is done with a small area at Nadeau Park and suggested that perhaps a small nature play area could be added in that park. Commissioner Schletty noted that people have mentioned that they miss the goats in his recent discussions. Commissioner Horwath stated that there are a lot of people that are not aware of the features that are found within the park. He noted that perhaps there could be a QR code displayed at each park that brings up information about the park's features. The Community Services Manager stated that staff is working on that project and noted that each park will have a sign with the park amenities and showing routes to other nearby parks and features. UPDATES The Community Services Manager provided an update on youth activities, noting that registration has begun for fall activities. He reviewed upcoming adult activity opportunities. He estimated that around 400 people attended the recent ice cream social. He stated that a unique opportunity was presented to the newly hired Recreation Coordinator and her last day will be August 10. He stated that staff is working to recruit for that position.