05-05-2022 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PARKS & REC COMMISSION MAY 5, 2022 2 PRESENTATIONS: YOUTH EVENT Ron Fulford Jr., President of iBall4Life, provided background information on his organization. He recognized the challenges that have occurred because of COVID. He stated that they brainstormed how to get the youth back out in the community and developed the idea for Youth Community Day. He felt that this day could bring families, friends, and everyone together in challenging times. He commented that youth are bored and are looking for validation and ways to be accepted. He believed that this day could give youth in the community something to look forward to in the community. He suggested a partnership with the City to create this for the community. He noted that this would also be an opportunity to advertise the available programs Little Canada has to offer its youth. He commented that the streets are taking the kids and felt that this would be an outlet to provide youth to keep them engaged and on a better path. He commented on the different elements that could be included in youth day to engage people and showcase different skills and abilities. Chair Miller recognized the enthusiasm Mr. Fulford has for the concept. Commissioner Horwath asked if there are sponsors secured for the event. Mr. Fulford replied that he has not yet done that. Commissioner Horwath asked if Mr. Fulford has spoken with the LCRA. Mr. Fulford replied that he had not done so yet and had only spoken to the Parks & Rec Director about the concept at this time. The Parks & Rec Director commented that staff believed that this was a good idea, and the next step was to bring this to the Commission and if supported, continue to move forward with planning the event. He reminded the Commission of Mr. Fulford’s previous engagement in bringing the new basketball hoops to Pioneer Park and he received support from LCRA. He noted that Mr. Fulford has also run basketball camps for the City, has donated his time to serve the youth, and brings things from his nonprofit as well. He stated that they wanted to ensure support from the Commission before further planning the event. Chair Miller commented that he recalled the previous presentation from Mr. Fulford. He noted that events are great to bring people to the parks. Commissioner Horwath clarified that his intent in asking those questions was to determine how far along this was in the planning process. Commissioner Hipp commented that if you combine, basketball and music that is great. She agreed that the hoops are used all the time and it is a draw for the community that even attracts people from other areas. She asked if there would be a large cost for this type of event.