02/08/2006 P&Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • • Planning & Zoning Board December 14, 2005 Page 3 Mr. Rafferty strongly recommended that the freestanding exterior trash area be attached to the building, as the board has always recommended. Mr. Rafferty pointed out that it would not be fair to others who have complied with this design element. Staff replied that the board could amend condition No. 13 to address this issue. The Board welcomed representatives of the YMCA. In attendance were Tim Staley, Vice President of the YMCA of Greater St. Paul, and Maria Manion of Ankeny Kell Architects. Mr. Rafferty acknowledged that the YMCA had made progress in the last few months. Mr. Laden asked what the process was when determining what goes inside a YMCA. He acknowledged that normally the P &Z Board would not get involved in this area, but because this is a civic bldg, he would like to comment. Mr. Staley explained that each YMCA has a local management board. That board has been working with city since 1998 to determine what the city would like to see and the necessary funding. They determined how much money there is, and the local board made the final decision of what would be included. These decisions are based on core components of what drives a YMCA. Mr. Staley clarified that the board is made up of local members of the community. Mr. Laden asked why a lap pool was chosen versus a leisure pool in the first phase. Mr. Staley replied that it is difficult to run a full program with only a zero depth/leisure pool without offering lap swimming. He also noted that it would be easier to raise money for a leisure pool in the future. Mr. Laden commented that the community has a greater need for a recreational pool than a lap pool. Mr. Tralle asked why every city resident hadn't been asked for a donation. Mr. Staley shared that the local board has worked on that, and a new initiative is starting in January. The board will be asking individuals for a donation of $100 from each household during this campaign. Mr. Tralle stated that he believes the community needs this, but that the YMCA has not done their homework with fundraising. Because of this, things are being taken away from citizens. Mr. Tralle asked that they please take these comments back to local board. He asked when the leisure pool is projected. Mr. Staley replied that in the past, the first expansion usually takes place within two years. Mr. Tralle asked what is planned for pre- teens, noting that the city census indicates there are more pre -teens than teens. Mr. Staley pointed out that the teen/senior center will not just encompass a teen area, but will be used as a youth room in general. The area will include ping pong and pool tables, along with other activities that encompass all age groups. Mr. Tralle asked who will own the building once it is built. Mr. Staley responded the YMCA of Greater St. Paul will own the building, but a local organization will operate and govern all of its programs.