10-05-2023 Parks & Rec Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PARKS & REC COMMISSION OCTOBER 5, 2023 2 OLD BUSINESS: TOBACCO AND CANNABIS USE IN THE PARKS AND PARK FACILITIES UPDATE The Parks & Rec Director recapped the discussion of the Commission on this topic at the last meeting. He stated that staff presented the topic with a modification at a Council workshop. He explained that the modification was to create a new chapter that addresses the use of tobacco and cannabis use in its own chapter as well as having additional language related to enforcement. He reviewed that enforcement process. He noted that no formal action has yet been taken as the Council discussion was only done in a workshop. Commissioner DeLong Miller provided details on the enforcement implemented by Saint Paul, which uses verbal warnings and administrative citations. Commissioner Abruzzese thanked staff for taking into account the concerns of the Commission and developing a better process for enforcement. NEW BUSINESS: RECREATION COORDINATOR UPDATE The Recreation Coordinator provided an update on recent community events and activities. She also highlighted recent and upcoming programs and community events. NEW BUSINESS: PICKLEBALL COURTS The Parks & Rec Director provided some background information from the previous discussions in 2017 which led to the dual striping of courts for tennis and pickleball. He stated that since that time pickleball activity has increased, noting that it is the fastest-growing sport in America. He commented that they have learned some things since 2017 and summarized those items. He then reviewed some of the things that have been considered as options. He noted that the most cost- effective option would be to convert existing courts to dedicated pickleball courts. He also provided input on noise complaints related to pickleball, which is a nationwide issue. He noted that Spooner could be a good location for dedicated pickleball courts and if that were done, he would suggest the Pioneer be converted to dedicated tennis courts. Commissioner Schletty commented that he does see people playing tennis at Spooner and wondered if changing the setup would irritate those users. The Parks & Rec Director agreed that not everyone would be happy with the change, but stated that this would be an option to have dedicated courts for both tennis and pickleball. Commissioner Hipp commented that could be an inexpensive solution. She asked if the community building would impact the courts. The Parks & Rec Director replied that the community building would not impact the courts and that could be part of the design discussions in the future.