04-27-2005 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES Parks & Recreation Commission April 7, 2005 TOBACCO IN PARKS PIONEER PK FLAGPOLE SPOONER PARK BLDG PARK SIGNS Sanders stated that Little Canada currently does not have overnight parking restrictions. He suggested limiting overnight parking on these streets in order to restrict residents from parking on- street if the parking restrictions were changed. I -Ie felt that occasional guests parking on- street could be pet witted. Sackett Glaser stated that she was concerned about promoting these on- street areas as part of our trail system if parking was not restricted. She felt that if restrictions were lifted, these areas should be removed from the city's trail map or at least identified as "future off- street trail areas." Sanders suggested discussing this topic as part of the Comprehensive Plan review. Sackett Glaser agreed, stating that on- street trails are not a good option and that off - street trails are preferred. Gray recommended continuing to restrict parking on city streets that contain striped, on- street pedestrian routes due to pedestrian safety issues. Motion seconded by Boss. Motion carried 6 — 0. Sackett Glaser asked about the possibility of a future off- street trail on McMenemy Street. The Director stated that if one was to be constructed in that area, the east side would be most favorable. He stated that in some cases, off - street trails are just not practical due to elevations, lack of right -of -way, and other factors. The Director stated that he did not have a recommendation on this item yet. He has not met with the other Ramsey County Parks Departments to see how they have handled this issue. I -Ie will bring this information back to the Commission at a future meeting. He has contacted the State's Parks Department, but they did not have any recommendations on the issue either. The Director stated that he has not received any public comments on this matter. The Director mentioned that if we choose not to ban tobacco in the parks, signs could be placed in select areas (such as near youth ball fields) requesting that people voluntarily not smoke in order to be considerate of others using the park. The Commissioners commented that banning tobacco in the parks would be very difficult to enforce. This item was tabled until next month's meeting. The Director stated that the new parks and recreation building at Spooner Park is coming along nicely. Brick has been placed and trusses should be installed next week. Construction should be done this summer in dine for Canadian Days. The Director stated that the Fire Department has reviewed the designs for the sign at the Firefighters I- Iistorical Trail and concurs with the Parks Sc. Recreation Commission's recommendation to proceed with construction with wording to read "Firefighters Historical Page 2 o f' 4 5