03-05-2015 Parks Comm. Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MARCH 5, 2015 FRIENDS The Director reported that the Friends of the Parks and Trails are conducting OF THE their annual tree sale, and presented the Commission with brochures PARKS- listing the items they have for sale. He reported that people can purchase TREE SALE trees and donate them to their local municipalities, and each year the City does receive one or two donattions. Steinert asked about the program several years ago where the City had trees for sale to residents at discounted prices. Sanders indicated that that program was funded through a grant from the DNR. That grant money has not been available for a number of years. Maida asked if a memorial tree had been donated for Thunder Bay Park. The Director reported that it had not, but a family recently donated a bench in memory of their son. Maida reported that he would give a copy of the Friends of the Parks tree sale brochure to those that were working on a tree donation for this particular family. BROECKER Sanders reported about tree reforestation that will be done in Spooner Park MEMORIAL through the Broecker Memorial donation. Sanders indicated that he would bring information to the next meeting regarding the reforestation plan. RECREATION The Director reported that the spring registration flyer has been distributed REPORT to local schools, and registrations are underway for ball sports, tennis, golf, and floor hockey. There was discussion on how the registration information is disseminated with the Director reporting that it goes to schools, is published in the City's newsletter and on its Web site and Cable TV channel. During summer months when the schools are closed, registration information is emailed to potential participants. Miller asked about winter sports. The Director indicated that basketball ends this weekend and gymnastics still has a few more weeks. Vang asked if there were try -outs for the various sports teams. The Director reported that there were not as the activities are at the recreational level. The Director indicated that traveling teams are typically run by associations, and that cities' sports teams are at the recreational level. Vang asked about the cost to participate in recreational activities and what is done if there is a financial hardship. The Director explained that through its fund-raising activities, LCRA buys down the cost of registration fees by 25%. LCRA also provides financial scholarships for those who cannot afford a registration fee. The Director explained how eligibility for these scholarships is determined and that LCRA allows the City's Parks and Recreation Department to make the determination. 4