04-26-06 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL APRIL 26, 2006 The nexC portion of the survey focused on parks facilities and recreational opportunities. 78% of residents felt very or somewhat informed about parks facilities, which is among the highest rating in the metro area. In responding to a question on park usage, Spooner Park was shown Co be the highest used park facility with trails being next. The negative ratings of the City's park facilities at 4% or less is unheard of. Morris stated that the survey results are a fantastic endorsement of the City's park system. 93°Io felt the City's park facilities met their needs and 93% also felt that recreation programs met their needs. When asked about potential park/recreation projects, there was very strong support for wildlife viewing areas. There was some interest in a Frisbee golf course. While there was some interest in a skateboard park, Chere was concern expressed about liability issues. The survey then focused on environmental protection, with 81 % feeling that the City's efforts in this area were about right. Morris noted that Che City is split on the issue of a smoking ban in City parks with 46% in support and 45% opposed. City service ratings indicated outstanding ratings overall. StreeC lighting was the one area that showed some concern, and Morris suggested that the City may want to look at its street lighting policy. Morris noted that 77% of residents feel empowered in the City's decision- makingprocesses. 54°lo approved of the job being done by the Mayor and Council Morris noted that 39% were unsure about the Mayor and Council's job performance, which is a high uncertainty level. Therefore, the City may wanC to increase its communication in Chis area. However, the 9 to 1 approval rating is among the highest in the metro area and the 6°Io disapproval rating among the lowest. In eating City staff, 51% rated staff at excellent or good, and 44% were unsure. Morris reported that the 8 Co 1 approval for City staff was among the top ratings in the Metro area. Morris reported that overall people are very happy with the City, Che Mayor and Council, and City staff. Again, Morris suggested that the City give more priority to communicating with residents about the jobs being done by the Mayor and Council as well as staff. This should help to decrease the uncertainty ratings. Morris pointed out that the City's newsletter is extremely well-received and would be an excellent vehicle to include this information. Also, the fact that the City has a high percentage of its population residing in apartments may be a factor in the high uncertainty ratings. Community appearance was sated at 90% excellent or good for homes. The rating of apartments was lower with their appearance sated aC 59% 3