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MINUTES <br />PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION <br />MARCH 7, 2013 <br />Sanders then began a detailed review of two design options. He noted <br />that in both cases the plan would be to retain the existing curbing <br />outlining the play structure area and replace the elements within that <br />curbing. It is also proposed that the majority of the sand would be <br />replaced with a wood fiber material that is handicapped accessible and <br />will also cushion a fall. Sanders noted that both options presented this <br />evening meet both handicapped accessibility and safety standards. <br />Sanders reviewed Option 1 which provides for a wide range of play <br />activities. It includes slides, climbing structures, swings for both younger <br />and older children, a jungle gym element, and a shade structure. One area <br />is proposed to be left in sand to accommodate diggers. Sanders then <br />presented pictures of the individual equipment items. Option 2 was <br />reviewed which included many of the same elements as well as a spring <br />animal. <br />At this point, the Commission invited comments from the public. <br />Heidi Wenzel, 164 Lake Street, commented that the playground structure <br />has been in need of replacement for a long time, and she was excited <br />about the improvement. Wenzel indicated that she was happy that the <br />sand would be replaced with the wood fiber material. Wenzel expressed <br />some concern about the condition of the horseshoe pit. She also indicated <br />that there is a grove of pine trees in the southwest corner of the park <br />where questionable activity occurs. The Director indicated that he would <br />contact Wenzel in the spring to discuss the horseshoe pit as well as the <br />possibility of thinning out the trees. <br />Danielle Olson, 115 Lake Street, reported that she operates an in -home <br />day care and utilizes the park frequently. She stated that she was glad the <br />play structure was being replaced indicating that her children have gotten <br />numerous and substantial slivers from the existing wooden structure. <br />Olson also was happy to hear that a shade element would be a part of the <br />new playground structure. Olson suggested that the large portion of the <br />structure be set at an angle so that people could not hide behind it. Olson <br />reported that she told her day care children about the new structure, and <br />they were very excited about it. She asked them for a list of things they <br />would like to see if they could help plan the structure. That list included <br />no wood, elimination of sand, tubes, etc. that wasps could use for their <br />nests, a safe structure, a baby swing, digger, climbing elements, keep the <br />bouncy horses, and a twirly slide. Olson asked if the benches and picnic <br />table would remain. Olson also indicated that her day care children range <br />in age from 3 months to 7 years, and the current structure is geared more <br />for ages 2 to 5. Olson also indicated that the element that children hang <br />2 <br />