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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999 Park Board Minutes PARK BOARD MINUTES January 20, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Howard, Robert Brockwell, Sally Laurion, Ruth Leyrer, - Earl Wolf, Mary James, Judith Mohay Filice, John Pollard OTHERS PRESENT: Richard Mull and Dennis Myers, Lansing Community College; P&nckCl' i Lindemann, Ingham County Drain Commissioner, Robert Ford and Mike Bristor, Landscape Architects and Planners; Burt Burleson, Law Department, R. Eric Reickel, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers, City Hall, 124 W. Michigan BOARD MINUTES MOTION: Howard moved to approve the minutes of the December 16, 1998 board meeting; seconded by Brockwell. Motion carried. MOTION: Howard moved to approve and accept the meeting minutes of other department advisory boards; seconded by James. Motion carried. INGHAM COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSION EASEMENT-BURCHARD PARK/GROESBECK Patrick Lindemann, Drain Commissioner for Ingham County, spoke to the board on obtaining an easement through Burchard Park to accommodate storm water pipes for the Groesbeck Drain. Ingham County is going to work with and share the costs with City of Lansing who is putting in a sanitary line near the location. The sanitary line and the storm pipes can be placed at the same time, so there will be substantial savings for both parties. This line will handle more than half of the storm water that is currently sent to the golf course. Brockwell complimented Ingham County and the City of Lansing for working together to accomplish what needs to be accomplished and for saving money. MOTION: Park Board moved that they had no objection to granting Ingham County an easement from to put in storm water lines through Burchard park for the Groesbeck drain. Moved by Brockwell; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. LANSING COMMUNITY COLLEGE REQUEST TO USE GROESBECK GOLF COURSE/ NATIONAL JUNIOR COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIP Richard Mull of Lansing Community College proposed to the Park Board that Groesbeck Golf Course be used as the site for the 1999 National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association Cross Country Championship November 12 and 13, 1999. They chose Groesbeck because it has a hilly terrain, is challenging, beautiful, has adequate parking, is convenient to downtown and is a great representation of the community. He presented to the Park Board data from the previous championships with the number of those who attended. He mentioned potential concerns including damage to the greens, lost revenues, traffic congestion and perhaps private parking problems. All of these were addressed in a packet handed to board members. PARK BOARD MINUTES - JANUARY 20, 1999 Page 2 Leyrer was equally concerned about the damage to the course, as well as where the 2,000 spectators would be seated. Mull responded there will be a roped off area where spectators are not to be. Wolf asked if LCC had any contact with neighborhood associations regarding cars, litter and other problems that would be associated with having this event at the course. Mull would like to develop a shuttle system to take people back and forth. He also does not feel the damage to the course is an issue either because of it being so late in the year. He believes the course will take care of itself. Brockwell expressed concern about the loss of revenue and damage to the course and also the heavy traffic being brought into the neighborhood. Pollard stated he is always interested in bringing national attention to Lansing parks. He asked what would happen to the event in the case of inclement weather. Mull responded it would still be held. James noted the department does a lot for the golfers and should also support the runners. Reickel stated that based upon parks research, the golf course would have anywhere from $250 to $1,000 in lost revenues on any given golf day. He stated that this would be like waiving fees and fees can't be waived without the authorization of Council. Lost revenues at Groesbeck for that time of year would be offset by the amount of exposure and commercial dollars that will be brought into the community. The permit process (including associated fees) must be followed. MOTION: Park Board moved to recommend that LCC be authorized to use Groesbeck Golf Course for the Lansing Community College National Junior Athletic Association's National Cross Country Championships. LCC will be responsible for turf damage and the accommodation of spectators and runners. Payment for lost golf revenues will be waived. Moved by James; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. LANSING BOAT CLUB LEASE Burt Burleson from the City Attorney's Office explained the lease expired December 31, 1997. The Lansing Boat Club has been operating as hold over tenants on a month-to-month basis at the pleasure of the City. The Lansing Boat Club is responsible for the past rent and taxes. Burleson stressed the group has operated under a lease all these years. While statements have been made the grantor of the property promised the Lansing Boat Club they could stay on site in perpetuity, there is no covenant in the deed. It is not noted anywhere in the legal documents. The Law Department will contact the Lansing Boat Club by letter explaining they are obligated to pay the 1998 property taxes and rent. Rent including taxes will be pro-rated on a month-to-month basis. A conceptual master plan will be presented to the Board at the February meeting. The Lansing Boat Club will be notified. BOARD EVALUATION -Tabled until 2/17/99 RIVER TRAIL EAST UPDATE Mike Bristor of Landscape Architects and Planners updated the Board on the River Trail East project. This will extend the trail which currently ends at Clippert Avenue. The trail will go along Kircher Park and follow along Kalamazoo Avenue to connect with MSU's trails. This will be an urban asphalt trail PARK BOARD MINUTES - JANUARY 20, 1999 Page 3 designed for wetland areas. Wolf noted the DNR has excellent drainage standards that go beyond the DEQ's requirements. He would prefer the DNR standards be followed. This project is combining work on the replacement of the vehicular bridge with the River Trail bridge. There have been hold ups due to discussions of a 4-lane bridge versus a 2-lane bridge. Once this issue has been settled, bids can go out. Hopefully, bids will go out in May. RIVER TRAIL WEST UPDATE Robert Ford of Landscape Architects and Planners spoke to the board on the West River Trail. Parks is working with MDOT and MDNR on this project. West River Trail is scheduled to go out for bid in March after easements from GM, St. Vincent DePaul and Fountain Towers are received. Bristor stated they are proposing a 12' pre-manufactured type of bridge for crossing the Red Cedar and Grand Rivers on the West River Trail. James asked if pedestrians will be encouraged to go to Glenn island or will the public be limited in their access to the island. Ford stated the island is not to be accessed by the public from the trail. There will be a pier that is mounted in the island to support the bridge and there will be emergency access from the bridge strictly for park personnel. The island does flood, it is not very well maintained, and there are no plans at this time to alter the flood characteristics of the area. Wolf stated the bridge is going to be a magnet for fisherman and wondered if the width considered to allow a row of people on the side. Bristor replied that is why they have considered a 12'width over the 10'width. Wolf would like a line on the bridge indicating where the fisherman are to be so the right-of-way is clearly marked for pedestrians, bike riders, etc. Reickel responded that they will take a look at it. Ford noted they have tried to position fishermen on other trails as best they can, but it has been his experience that wherever you place them, they like to fish somewhere else. MOORES RIVER DRIVE/FRANCES PARK SHORELINE PROPOSAL Bristor spoke to the board explaining the idea is to re-route the road for safety reasons, to improve access to the shoreline and establish bank stabilization to prevent erosion. They are hoping to create a little more green space between the trail and shoreline. Right now it has.many narrow spots, deep banks, and it is not easy to access. The parking lots are dirt which have a tendency to wear quickly, and they do not drain well. The path would connect into Frances and go all the way down the shoreline. There would be a second crossing that would go into Frances Park and would go up to existing paths in the park. There would be more trees brought in, a formalized parking area and green space. They are hoping to receive the funding by the FY 2000 and then have the project begin in mid-summer. James asked if the proposed parking lot was going to be open all night and if the River Trail is open all night. Reickel stressed this is not going to be part of the River Trail. This started out as a bank stabilization project because this area is eroding into the river. With the grant that parks has to stabilize the bank and wanting to enhance the attributes of the river they were able to sell the DNR on the basis of not only stabilizing the river but also providing an opportunity for fisherman. The parking lot today is used around the clock even though it has posted hours. Parks does not have the capability to close down the parking lot but it is part of Frances Park and our park ordinance states that all parks are closed from dusk to dawn. The parking will not be regulated. The path will only run from the west to the east end of Frances Park. PARK BOARD MINUTES - JANUARY 20, 1999 Page 4 Ford noted there will be a total of 44 parking spaces. Filice stated this is a very popular and heavily used area of the river and wondered how many cars currently park there. Ford explained cars park rather haphazardly now but estimates there are about 30 cars. RIVER TRAIL NORTH -APPROVAL TO APPLY FOR GRANT Reickel and Ford presented to the Park Board the opportunity the City has to apply for a grant from the Clean Michigan Initiative that was passed at the November election which authorized $50 million for waterfront redevelopment grants. The criteria for this grant as outlined by DEQ, requires that the funds be used for environmental response activities, demolition, property acquisition, and infrastructure and public facility improvements. The alignment of the River Trail from Dietrich Park to Tecumseh Park meets all the requirements and offers the City an unusual opportunity to apply for a grant that includes acquisition, development and environmental remediation. It is parks understanding that the funds for this project will not be available until September of 1999. By the time the engineering is done and the easements that are necessary are acquired, the matching monies would not be needed until FY 2001. The match could come from the 2001 Millage. Ford spoke to the board on the current standing of the Parks Department with the River Trail North. Ford showed the board members a map of the existing trail at Dietrich Park. The map shows sections of land owned by Conrail, BWL, and Ashland Chemical which could very well become available shortly. There have been several conversations as to when the lands will become available. One area of land is in the middle of a toxic cleanup and it is on-going. There is a report coming out in April regarding cleanup and what the toxicity levels are. Pollard asked if there is money in the budget to maintain all the River Trail that we currently own. He is concerned that we don't have enough money now to take care of what we have, yet we want to build more. Reickel replied there is a line item in the maintenance budget that deals with trail maintenance. Brockwell remembered when he was a council member, the River Trail North was brought before them. The citizens in the Tecumseh River area did not want this trail because it would be intrusive into their backyards; whereas, the area in discussion today is really not going to be intrusive into people's yards. He believes it is a good project. MOTION; The Park Board moved to ask the Mayor and Council that the City be authorized to apply for this grant. Moved by Brockwell; supported by James. Carried 5 to 3 with Howard, Laurion and Pollard opposing. The board thanked Bob Ford for his presentation on the River Trail. POTTER PARK ZOO FEE OMISSION It was discovered by Potter Park staff that when the fees were approved for 1999, a differential fee was omitted. The zoo recommends that school groups within the City of Lansing including private, public and pre-schools be admitted to the zoo free and non-resident school groups pay the regular non-resident fee per adult with the exception of the non-resident pre-school children who would pay fifty cents per child. MOTION: Park Board moved to recommend that the Potter Park fee schedule be amended. Moved by Brockwell; supported by Howard. Motion carried. PARK BOARD MINUTES - JANUARY 20, 1999 Page 5 GROESBECK STARTER HOUSE The estimated cost to replace the starter house with a low bid as well as to enclose it is $314,000. There still has been no settlement with the insurance company. Until the settlement is received, there is no money available to proceed with construction. It is recommended that the millage contingency be used to make up the difference in order to be able to construct the starter house otherwise the starter house will have to be modified. $47,800 was previously approved and $175,000 is expected from insurance proceeds. This leaves a $86,200 shortfall. We are requesting millage funding for this $86,200. There is a possibility that there may be $35,000 left over from the bond issue for the golf course improvements. If this is the case, that will be used before the other money is used. James does not understand why Parks money must be used to re-build the starter house when the insurance covering the structure is supposed to cover it. Millage money is not for this purpose and other contingency money should be. Brockwell agreed with James. He would like to see the clubhouse built the way it was intended to be. He knows the money is not there and if there was some way for the money to come from some other aspect he may be willing. He suggested maybe having a surcharge attached to golf fees in order to cover the cost. Pollard noted that for FY 99, the City will receive $351,863 in administrative charges from the golf fund. An alternative source for funding this starter house should be found. MOTION: The Park Board moved to not use millage money to help subsidize the re-building of the Groesbeck starter house. Moved by James; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Reickel reminded Park Board that they will be hosting the MRPA Awards Reception at the Michigan Historical Museum. The 1998 Accomplishments of the Parks & Recreation Department report was given to board members. Filice commended staff and the board on the accomplishments for 1998 and for the variety of activities that are available to the City of Lansing. She would like to make sure this booklet is available to citizens by placing it at various community centers and at the main office of parks and recreation. Reickel stated the accomplishments would also be attached to the Mayor's State of the City. Eight bids were received for the Potter Park Zoo Exploration and Discovery Center Entrance Plaza. The project was estimated to cost approximately$3.2 million, the low bid was $2.7 million. The goal has been reached. Groundbreaking should take place by March 1. The Daddy/Daughter Dance will be held at the Lansing Center on February 11. The Valentine Magic Dinner will be held at Turner Dodge House February 13 and 14. The "Before Freedom Came" display through the Smithsonian Institute at Turner Dodge House will be April 18 - May 16. Board members will receive a special invitation. PARK BOARD MINUTES - JANUARY 20, 1999 Page 6 BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS Howard mentioned he has been contacted by four senior citizens who are concerned that the Senior Activity Leader who works at Letts Community Center was transferred over to Miller Road Center. He believes there needs to be some contact with people who volunteer with Letts. They are very concerned. Pollard stated the Park Board should draft a letter to thank all of the volunteers that help keep the park system running. He also noted he would have never approved all of the fees that were passed at the last meeting. He believes the continual increase of fees is unjustified. He would like to receive his Park Board Budget packet earlier. Reickel responded the fees are tied to paying the contract employees wages based upon the CPI. In order to be able to provide the contract workers with a reasonable wage, they have to try to give them a small increase every year. Those increases are associated with the 2% increase that contract workers receive. The City of Lansing still provides a substantial amount of free recreation, more so than many of the surrounding communities. Wolf hopes the River Trail grant applications include money for signage along the Trail. Signs should be put up along the trail noting the historic landmarks, information about the rivers, banks, fishing laws, etc. James noted the collaboration between the City and the Friends of Cooley Gardens was omitted from the State of the City information, Reickel stated it was an oversight. Brockwell stated he is going to approach each member of the City Council and ask them to restrict the percentage amount that they take from the golf enterprise fund for the general fund. Filice thanked Roberta Miller of the Community Gardening Project for her assistance to Otto School to help them build their garden. Filice also thanked Granger for their donation of compost and Steve Chalker of Recycling for his work with students in creating the public recycling bins that are observable on North US 27. Leyrer noted that garden projects are wonderful. She stated there is a garden project in the Foster neighborhood and the community is working with Roberta Miller. Foster neighborhood has approached Reickel and asked if they could possibly use the building at Foster Park in the future. She requested that she see the leases for the Foster Park and Oak Park buildings. James asked that this be placed on the agenda for the February meeting. Reickel stated he has four tapes available for viewing with information on skateboarding. The Citizens Committee Report will be available at the next board meeting with their findings for the Extreme Sports Park. Meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Minutes transcribed by Rachel Bahl. Submitted by: Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved by Park Board 2/17/99. PARK BOARD MINUTES February 17, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice, Robert Brockwell, Wilbur Howard, Mary James(7:04 p.m.), Sally Laurion, Ruth Leyrer, John Pollard (7:01 p.m.), Earl Wolf STAFF PRESENT: Robert Ford and Roger Fox, Landscape Architects and Planners; Lee Ann Foreback, Secretary, Don Ballard, Golf Manager, R. Eric Reickel, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M., Council Chambers, City Hall, 124 W. Michigan Park Board President Filice reminded all that public comment on non-agenda items is welcome at the beginning of the meeting. Public comment on agenda items is to be after the presentation and the Park Board member questions have been addressed. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA- Golf Course Fees BOARD MINUTES Brockwell requested the minutes of January 20, 1999, be amended to reflect his concern regarding Lansing Community College's use of Groesbeck. He is concerned over the heavy traffic, the loss of revenue and possible damage to the golf course. MOTION: Brockwell moved to approve the minutes of January 20, 1999, as amended; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. MOTION: Brockwell moved to approve and place the meeting minutes of other OWartment advisory boards on file; seconded by Pollard. - - Motion carried. .71 BOARD EVALUATION - tabled 12/16/98 and 1/20/99 `_' ` MOTION: James moved that this item be tabled; seconded by Wolf. rn Motion carried. — GRAND RIVER PARK MASTER PLAN Director noted the Board had discussed Grand River Park on at least three occasions in 1998 and it had been tabled each time. There were three charges from the Mayor: 1) To review the overall park acquisition and disposal program as there have been allegations the city is selling off its park system. 2) Review the Capital expenditure program for the past eight years (since the millage took effect in 1991). 3) Take a look at Grand River Park on basis of how all activities could be placed and see if it is feasible to dispose of the westerly 15 to 20 acres and also see how the Lansing Boat Club could be accommodated. The Director noted the Mayor is looking forward to the Board's recommendation but if the Board is not comfortable with what is presented and needs more information, table the item and ask for the needed information. Robert Ford of Landscape Architects and Planners, Inc., gave an overview of the capital Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 2 improvement projects and general improvement projects including an update on the river trail including the present trail, current expansions and future plans. An overview of acquisitions and disposals was also given. Ford explained the impetus for this master plan was the receipt of development proposals for the 15-20 westerly acres of the park. The proposals were for high end housing. Benefits would be the initial investment from the land, subsequent property tax and income tax from these homes. The proposals have been withdrawn at this time. Ford explained that he is presenting a conceptual master plan for the park. The plan included a concession/restroom building, an amphitheater for picnicking or concerts, picnic pavilion, current boat launch and restroom, a building for housing water safety training to go with the theme of the MSU Water Ski Club and Oar and Paddle Club and Crew Club. Additional parking was included. The Lansing Boat Club would also be moved to the easterly portion of the park with a new clubhouse. Howard questioned the contractual relationship between the Park Board and MSU Ski Club/Crew Club and Oar and Paddle Club. They are leased. He is concerned with public land being used for private interests. He feels that it should be clear if things are public or private. James explained the MSU Crew Club has an outreach program to teach children to crew. Filice also notes they have a summer lesson program also. Reickel explained MSU Crew is women's varsity sport and the Club Crew is the men's intramural jointly used and owned by intramural. Oar and Paddle Club used to have a Quonset but which burnt. This rebuilt building belongs to the city if the Oar and Paddle Club ceases to use it and the same with MSU Crew. These groups came to the Park Board in the past and obtained approval to be in this location. Leyrer wondered why we would build a new Club. Reickel explained the LBC lease expired in 1996. Private developers then came forward and we were advised to not renew the lease and get an appraisal to see if it is being used for its highest and best use. The LBC continued on a month-to-month lease. The Club wants an extended lease. Before that is done, all options must be explored. Filice wondered if a Forestry survey had been done. Dykema had relayed to Reickel the main growth is in the area we are recommending to retain. Discussion followed on a 75' versus 100' ROW along the shoreline. Wolf requested it remain at 100'. Reickel reminded the Board there were currently no proposals for development. If it was decided to sell the land, a new RFP would go out. If the Board has specific requirements for the sale of the land, they could make that part of their recommendation. Brockwell noted this is an advisory board and not a policy setting board. The final policy is determined by Council. Reickel explained the various options the Board had as to approving the current master plan with the department being directed to work with LBC as to the feasibility of moving their club house. Also the Board could recommend approval of the plan with the exception of the sale of the property with the department directed to fine tune the plan to keep the club where it is. Reickel explained the board needs to make a decision so the issue can be handled. Pollard spoke to the public stating that no matter what the Board states, prior to park land being sold, it must go to the people for a vote. He noted the amphitheater would not be a Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 3 good use for a band as the neighbors across the river would not accept this noise. Pollard stated the LBC was there in 1944 when we got the land. He is concerned that now we want to do something else with the land after R. E. Olds is gone. The Park Board's responsibility is to protect green space. Pollard wondered why there is a discrepancy in lease amounts between differing private groups. Pollard is concerned that the money for the sale of the property will not be a good investment for the department as the money from a sale would be gone quickly. This has been tabled by the Park Board repeatedly and he is interested in hearing from a lot more citizens. Filice thanked Pollard for his comments and noted they are always to the point. James noted after the east side narrows down a lot and the LBC will be cramped in a very narrow space. Brockwell stated Pollard and James have made good points but this development of new housing is to get additional revenue in the City. Developers are more sensitive to environmental issues now. Partnerships are important and this can be accomplished. We need to look at this issue. Leyrer also feels the LBC would be cramped at the east end. She doesn't want to see greenspace lost. The river is a cherished area. Wolf is interested in relocation concepts but we must allow citizens access to the river no matter whether it is the LBC or a private developer. Access to the river is the bottom line. This is the most important issue. If it is private, the waterfront still should be public. He is interested in public comment. Public Comment on Grand River Park Master Plan: Jim Hepfer, Lansing Boat Club Commodore, 917 Sparrow. Hepfer spoke on behalf of the LBC and presented the Lansing Boat Club Executive Board Position on the Grand River Park. The position is basically it would be improper for the City to sell a portion of the park and the club has rights for future use. The Club wants to stay on their present site with a longer lease. If they must move, the eastern portion of the park would take considerable improvement. Hepfer stated the club has not been asked to move at any time, and they feel kicked around. They are still waiting for the offer to talk about a move. His personal comment was urban renewal is difficult but the City has said nothing and they have no incentive but to consider staying where they are. He has personal reservations about the river trail being by the LBC due to the personal property stored on site and would like a fence to protect their leased property. Bruce Miller, 726 Touraine, East Lansing, Director of the Rowing Programs for the Lansing Oar and Paddle Club at the Robert Ryden Boat House. He is also the faculty advisor to the Men's Club Program at MSU. The LOPC is open to anyone who wants to learn. They offer a novice rowing program of 8 weeks for$60. The number of rows has been going up 15-25% per year and therefore the number of rowers is also increasing. The Men's Club program has run a high school program every summer. If the river trail went in front of the club, it would be difficult to use boats off the river. If the LBC went down by their site, it could work out but detailed plans would need to be seen. Ray Signs, 1717 Moores River Drive. He is a member of the Boat Club. They became members in 1995 very easily. He asked if the plan would become reality if instigated by development or regardless would the plan go? Reickel noted if there was no reason to Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 4 develop the area without the sale of the property unless it was determined the park would have a better use if the Boat Club were moved. Signs stated it is a beautiful area along the river and he would like it left natural. Filice noted that at least six of the Board members have walked the property and they are familiar with it. The Board takes this very seriously. Seth Berry 2430 Burnt Tree Lane #1, East Lansing. He is a former president of the MSU Water Ski Club. He is concerned about the water traffic problem. He explained how the ski course and the jump would conflict with the use of the LBC if it was moved to the east. The MSU Crew Club and the Water Ski Club worked together to schedule their practice times so they did not interfere with each other. The LBC will not like the boat wake to knock their boats all day. He's been here for five years. Traffic has picked up tremendously. Fred W. Adams, 3823 Palmer, Lansing. He is a long-time member of the LBC. It has been a source of pleasure and entertainment for his family. The group is concerned about the various groups who would like to sell this property for a condominium community. The LBC would like a five year lease at their existing site. They have proven they care about the park and exceed the standard of care of the land in their charge. They keep it up at no charge. It is for the common person and not a country club atmosphere. Adams noted some city personnel has been saying this is not an organization for City of Lansing residents. He noted that was true and the membership has never been restricted. He wondered if we only allow city residents in the rest of our facilities. Adams stated the Commodore Jim Hepfer has provided information on resident/non-residents to Councilmember Meyer and that Meyer could pass it on as he feels appropriate. Adams requests that they be given a lease and the same consideration as other park users. Mike Whittman and Samantha of 4124 S. Canal, LBC members. He noted there is a problem understanding what the club is. The City Attorney's office has referred to it as a yacht club. They have a lot of fun and enjoy the river. It was $120 to join the first year and then $100 per year thereafter. They would like to see the LBC expanded. There could be a nature walk in the park but he would not like to see a riverwalk by their boats. He is worried about liability if someone should get hurt on their property. Lola Arbaugh, 607 Pacific Parkway, LBC. Her husband, John, was the commodore for years and everyone is like family in the club. They have worked with the ski club and it would be a traffic problem if the club were to move into the easterly portion of the park. Steve Hacker , 1153 Hidden Spring Trail, Dewitt. He reminded the board of the Waverly problem several years ago. He is concerned about the possibility of condos being put in. He appreciates the need for the money but the board needs to maintain the greenspace. Bebee Bryans, 1218 N. Runaway Bay Drive, Lansing. MSU Crew Club Coach, resident and frequent user of the park. It would be tragic to take away this greenspace. Make the space user friendly. There is currently a lot of traffic on the river and condo owners will want boat slip space. David Hepfer, 809 Harvest Lane, Apt. 9, Lansing. Development would cause a problem at this site. The Board needs to keep the middle income boat club users and park users in mind. It currently functions well although the ski hills are a waste. The City shouldn't cause problems in the area. Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 5 Eugene G. Wanger, 1735 Abbington, LBC member, representing self. The Board should keep faith with the donors of the land. Board has been given misinformation and half-truths by the City. Wanger stated the Board had been told the land was acquired for GI housing, but the City never talks about the moral obligation to the Olds family. He individually mailed information to the Board to be sure they had seen it. As far as this being simply an advisory board, this board is to make a recommendation. This is important greenspace and it must be regulated by the board. It is often mentioned there is no restriction or reverter clause in the deed. Laws at the time made it almost impossible to put a restriction clause into a deed. Wanger noted the City would likely get much more than $1 million for this property. MOTION: Pollard moved to reject the proposed master plan for Grand River Park; seconded by Leyer. Motion carried. (5-3) [(Yes-James, Laurion, Pollard, Leyer, Filice) (No-Howard, Brockwell, Wolf)] GOLF COURSE FEES Don Ballard, Golf Manager, spoke to the Board regarding a promotional program for the golf courses and some fee changes to be effbctive with the spring opening. Fee changes included allowing credit cards on a trial basis at Groesbeck, specials on golf cart rentals, punch cards specials, weekday green fee and cart specials prior to 2:00 P.M. and fall green discounts. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Board recommend the golf fees be submitted to the Mayor and Council for approval as presented by the Golf Manger; seconded by James. Motion carried. SPORTS PARK Roger Fox of Landscape Architects and Planners, Inc., presented the Sports Park Study Task Force Report. Fox gave a detailed presentation. The task force was formed in response to overwhelming attendance (over 200 people) at a meeting last fall to determine if there was interest in the region for a place for extreme sports which include skateboarding, inline skating, BMX (bicycle moto cross) and mountain biking. The response was overwhelming. These users become unwanted citizens because of the sports they choose. Each time they find a place that suits them, signs are put up banning them from that area. A facility built to accommodate them would eliminate this problem. The task force was created and subcommittees chaired by citizen representatives were formed to investigate: Safety(James Crisp, Chair) and Maintenance/Administration (Stephanie Kramer, Chair) merged - safety issues and research successful ways of running the park including rules, regulations, oversight and operations. Finance (George Leichtweis, Chair) - find available resources to help provide funding. Location (Pete Bosheff, Chair) - find possible locations that would support this park and be objective to all ideas. Design (Roger Fox, Chair) - discover what each interest group would like to see in their area of interest and help design the layout. After the presentation the Board asked about the satellite location possibilities. Fox explained a satellite site would have lower risk as it is smaller and would be available for use more hours as it would not be fenced. Signage on each site explains the rules. The Board also wondered about the impact on the sledding hill at Ranney Park if this site was chosen. It would not impact the sledding hill. Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 6 Reickel explained the existing master plan doesn't entail this type of activity. To pursue this type of park or satellite park it would have to be included in the City's five year master plan. Public Comment on Sports Park: John Slawinski, 6501 Rosedale, spoke as a skater and inline instructor. Skate parks are self- policing and area youth need entertainment. The kids want to help build it and it should proceed. George Leichtweis, 118 Lexington, East Lansing spoke in favor of the park. There is support for the skateboard park and for BMX. Many different resources must be used for funding this type of park. He spoke regarding Ranney Park's potential as a site for the park. He noted people are fearful but basketball and baseball would be outlawed without courts and ballfields, and the persons who played would be considered dangerous. Ranney Park is not exclusive to senior neighbors who are not taxpayers of Lansing. Possibly berms could be installed to insulate the complex. This sport is less of a threat than swimming pools or play equipment. The neighboring merchants will notice a decrease in illegal activity. He noted the City of Brighton recently installed a skate park and they only have 6,000 residents. He then offered a $5,000 donation from his business, Modern Skate and Surf, to be used toward the Skate Park potion of the project and challenged others to match it. Brian Smith, 1007 Woodbine, Lansing, spoke as a former sports official working out of Ranney Park. He supports the park being used for a sports park and presented letters (from Donald A. Schalon, 1312 Indiana Avenue, Lansing and Kenneth Dilts, 718 N. Magnolia, Lansing, both former scorekeepers at Ranney Park) in support of this also. Judith Miller, 531 Glenmore, East Lansing, thanked the citizens on the committee for their hard work. She noted problems which would occur if Ranney Park was chosen as a site for any of this activity. When there was a tournament there several years ago, the noise was very upsetting to residents. Even the demo video states the park should not be within 1 mile of a residential area. This park also provides an important buffer of greenspace. It is used by joggers, day care groups, sledders and softball participants. The 170 seniors who are neighbors are concerned about being jostled and bumped. This park could be upgraded to include a jogging area, play equipment, improved parking and also it could simply be kept clean. Kathi Yule, 2819 Lee Blvd., stated she was one of those Ranney people. Her input was not taken seriously at the committee level. She is against Ranney Park being used as a site because it is too close to homes. She suggested the Board go to the senior building and see how close it is for the elderly who use the park a lot. Merry Jo Kerekes, 321 S. Holmes, spoke as President of the PTA and as a parent. The PTA supports the concept and offers their endorsement. It is very important to promote values through sports. Lucinda Means spoke representing League of Michigan Bicyclists, P.O. Box 16201, Lansing 48901. The LMB is an ardent supporter of open space being used for recreation activity. She noted change is difficult. The more people in an area, the less crime problems there are; and if kids are not idle, they will have less opportunity to get into trouble. Noise is already there from the loudspeaker of the car lot. The park will not be lit so events will not take place at night. This area will not be any more congested than it is and the users will patronize Frandor. This is a quality of life issue as we are the most obese state in the union. We must find ways Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 7 to get our children outdoors and busy. John Chamberlain, 2620 Legend Woods, Delta, grew up in this area and always wished there would have been something at this park. Chamberlain thought it was a great idea and laughter is not a disturbance. He also felt East Lansing should pay for some of this. Dirck Terwilliger, 1109 Coolidge Road, Hobby Hub spoke noting there has been a lot of discussion on this project. Activities that benefit the youth and give them something to do are good for the community. They have a concern that when a facility of this nature is in proximity to a shopping center. Both of these locations tend to draw the element that cause problems. Care must be taken in the planning and operation of this facility so the elements in the community that seek to disrupt rather than build are put on notice from day one this is not a place they are welcome. LPD does not normally respond to loitering problems, etc. in private shopping areas. The other concern is relating to parking. The City must provide within Ranney Park adequate paved parking to handle the participants for average use. Currently at ball games there are cars parked at both sides of Morgan Lane and in the center of Morgan Lane. This is a hazard. The merchants are willing to work with the City on special events. Geoff Williams, 1332 Oakridge Avenue in the Amber Apartments spoke as a resident of the buildings that look over Ranney Park. He likes this site and it is over one half mile from the apartments to where the skate park is proposed. He feels it would be a perfect site. Gil Northrup, 531 Glenmore, graduate with Lansing Eastern and Associate Degree from LCC , raised in Lansing and has lived in East Lansing for 3 years. Here to speak to the location and the safety of placing an extreme sports complex at Ranney Park. Placing a large number of young children, pre-teens and adolescents in Ranney Park is akin to sending them out to play in traffic. The American Academy of Pediatrics asked that skateboarders not be brought into contact with heavy traffic or pedestrians. This is an area with 100,000 cars per day. The parking facility in Frandor has room for 2,000 vehicles. This is an area of high accidents. The AAP warns against heavy traffic areas because children are hurt coming to the park, not at the park. Consider the location and safety. Prevent injuries and deaths by moving the park. Gerry Vogel, 3227 Holiday Lane, Lansing. He has been involved with BMX for 20 years and was the last Director at the Jack Pine BMX which closed for lack of financing. His kids have all been involved in BMX but their injuries have occurred in other sports such as football, track, floor hockey, basketball... He feels if people are in an area where they can do their activities legally, there is less problem. Now the skateboarders end up going down stairs or skating in other places where they aren't wanted. The bike riders also like to ride free style. It's time to use this property and something is needed out there for the kids. Pete Bosheff, 227 Custer St., Lansing, (Chair of Location Committee) acknowledged some of the committee members present as they worked very hard on this as did the other committees. Geoff Williams compiled the data, Mark Sanderson, Dave Hanson and Nathan from Riverfront Cycling. This is a citizen-driven project. Citizens conceived this project and over the years people have requested this. When it became clear the City would consider it, the citizens were willing to sign up to do the work. This is an excellent program of citizen involvement. Bosheff explained the intent of satellite parks is to find places to displace skaters from the Lansing Center or library steps for example. This doesn't require an elaborate facility but just a few elements in various places. Concerning liability, cities are at higher risk for litigation if there is no facility available. Many cities are doing away with on-site supervision as it is actually an added risk. Park Board Minutes - February 17, 1999 Page 8 MOTION: Brockwell moved the Park Board recommends that the Parks and Recreation Director work with the City of East Lansing to cooperatively develop a Master Plan for Ranney Park for development, operation, maintenance and safety; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. MOTION: Wolf moved that the Park Board recommends that the Five Year Recreation Plan and the Capital Improvements schedule be amended to include the Sports Park concepts as per the recommendation of the Citizens Advisory Report dated February 17, 1999. Activities would include skateboarding, in line skating, BMX and other related sports activities and support facilities. Furthermore, it is recommended that funding be identified from a variety of sources on a regional basis for its development, operation, maintenance and safety. Seconded by James. Discussion: James requested clarification if they were supporting the sports park concept only and not necessarily adopting the report. Reickel noted the purpose of the report was to discover if there was interest in this type of activity in the community and the region. The report includes that and it was expanded to investigate sites, financing and support. It is not policy but it is a report for the City of Lansing. Motion carried. MOTION: Brockwell moved the March Park Board be moved to Tuesday, March 16, 1999. Seconded by Howard. Motion carried. The remainder of the agenda was tabled until the March 16, 1999, meeting. Meeting adjourned at 10:25 P.M. Submitted by X� Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved by the Park Board March 16, 1999. PARK BOARD MINUTES MARCH 16, 1999 .. ; - , MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice, Robert Brockwell, Sally Laurion, Ruth Leyrer, John Pollard ;=' : 39 MEMBERS ABSENT: Wilbur Howard, Mary James, Earl Wolf (all unexcusedy"`� Gi l' %►_�R� OTHERS PRESENT: Robert Ford and Mike Bristor, Landscape Architects and Planners, Fred Lindholm, SBA Inc., Betty and Greg Criss, F.A.I.R., Jim Hepfer, Lansing Boat Club, R. Eric Reickel, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:07 P.M., Letts Community Center, 1220 W. Kalamazoo STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Greg and Betty Criss of F.A.I.R., spoke to the board regarding using the Foster Park building for their organization's meetings. The children who play softball and soccer games at the park now have to use the restrooms across Kalamazoo, and it is not safe for them to cross the street. They would like access to the restrooms at this building also. Filice asked if F.A.I.R. had permission from Parks to conduct these activities at the park for their youth? The Director replied F.A.I.R. has worked with Leisure Services staff for several summers. The Director also noted there is an agreement between Parks and the Ingham County Health Department Self-help Garden Project for the use of this building. Leyrer and F.A.I.R. have spoken with Roberta Miller, Garden Project Coordinator, and she is willing to share the building. (See motion at end of meeting.) Jim Hepfer of the Lansing Boat Club, spoke to the board and thanked them for their resolution last month. He asked to see a resolution from the board adopting a no-sell policy for public park land. BOARD MINUTES MOTION: Brockwell moved to approve the minutes of the February 17, 1999 Park Board meeting with a correction on page 3 to read the "R.E. Olds family", seconded by Laurion. Motion carried. MOORES RIVER DRIVE SHORELINE FRANCES PARK PROJECT REVIEW This issue was on the agenda as a courtesy. At the last meeting Filice had asked whether or not the neighbors of this area had been informed of this project. Parks contacted Brian Jeffries in regards to the shoreline at Frances Park. Jeffries met with Landscape Architects and Planners to review the plan. Although this project has been before Council with a public hearing, Jeffries also expressed concern about the neighbors being informed. Reickel met with Councilmembers Murphy and Bauer to update them on the project and explain Jeffries' concern. Bauer lives in that neighborhood and noted this is an asset and improvement to the community at large. Councilmembers Murphy and Bauer were going to speak with some of the neighbors Park Board Minutes - March 16, 1999 Page 2 and Bauer was going to personally contact Jeffries. BOARD EVALUATION This item has been tabled awaiting the report since December 16, 1998. It was due December 1, 1998. Brockwell will work on this and submit it to the Board for approval at the April meeting. CELLULAR TOWERS While this has been before the Board, a motion was never made. The City Council is moving forward and has authorized two sites--Kircher/Red Cedar and Parcel B. Fred Lindholm of SBA, spoke to the Board regarding the individual installation of the cellular towers at Washington, Gier and Biggie Munn and gave a brief overview of his company. He explained what the poles would look like and brought a model for the Park Board to view. Laurion asked how far would the pole be located away from the residences at Biggie Munn Park. Lindholm replied the pole would be approximately 500 ft. away and they are about 190 ft. high and 6 ft. wide at the base. At Parcel B, the nearest residence would be about 1,000 feet away from the pole, and this area has never been considered a park. Leyrer wondered how access would be obtained to towers throughout the parks. Reickel explained sites are chosen within the parks so the access to them would not interfere with the park use. Leyrer asked how much interference will residents experience at Kircher as the towers are so much closer? Lindholm replied there will be no interference of any kind. If the towers did cause any interference, complaints can be made to the FCC. It would have to be corrected within 24 hours or be shut down. Laurion stated the community has concerns regarding the proximity of towers to areas in which children play and learn. Does this hold true for the Gier Community Center and what was the recommendation of the community group as to placement near schools? Was there any recommendation as far as distance that towers need to be placed from heavily used areas? Lindholm stated he had handouts relating to that issue and there are not any health-related issues involved. Laurion stated it is the opinion of the community that there is a health concern, although the scientific community says there is none. She asked if the department feels there is a community concern. Reickel noted the City Council has had public hearings on this and he does not recall any resistance being that Council passed a resolution. Brockwell asked what the projected revenue would be to the parks. Until the contract is signed, it is not definite, but it is about $1,000 a month and will go up. The total over 30 years would be approximately $550,000 per tower. Brockwell commented the placement of these towers in the proposed areas will have minimum impact on the Park Board Minutes - March 16, 1999 Page 3 parks. Everyone is going to benefit from this and there is a need for the revenue from these towers in the park system. Washington park is also a proposed site. None of the carriers have shown any interest in Gier or Washington Parks. MOTION: Park Board, Parks and Planning and Development work together to locate cellular towers in the park system if it is deemed an appropriate use for park purposes by the Law Department. The towers should be located so that they are not intrusive to the purposes for which the park was created and any revenues generated from the towers should be deposited in the Park Acquisition and Development fund. Moved by Brockwell; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried (4-1 Filice opposed) ADADO RIVERFRONT PARK/LANSING COMMUNITY COLLEGE PARKING Mike Bristor of Landscape Architects and Planners spoke representing Lansing Community College regarding building an employee parking lot in Adado Riverfront Park for the college. LCC hired LAP to prepare a conceptual drawing of the location of the lot. LCC would like to build the parking lot in the northeast corner of the park near Grand and Saginaw. LCC would be responsible for all building costs and maintenance. The City would use the lot for festivals and other activities and it would also be open on weekends. Pollard stated they may have problems with skateboarders using the lot. Bristor stated they currently have problems with skateboarders and he is working on this problem. Leyrer asked about the number of parking spaces, lighting and security. Bristor noted there would be 120 spaces, lighting will be added and LCC security would be patrolling the lot. Laurion likes the idea if it can be assured that Parks will be able to use the lot as necessary. MOTION: Parks Board moved to partner with LCC in building a parking lot in the northeast corner of Adado Riverfront Park which would be built and maintained at the expense of the college. Moved by Brockwell; supported by Laurion. Motion carried. RIVER TRAIL WEST - EASEMENTS Reickel explained the Department is attempting to obtain easements to develop the trail from Spring and Elm Streets to Moores Park and the board needs to make a motion on these. Bob Ford of Landscape Architects & Planners briefly explained the easements to the Board. Easements necessary for River Point Park to Elm Street are Easement H - Fountain Place and Easement J - St. Vincent DePaul. Easements necessary for Elm Street to Moores Park are General Motors Easements A, B, E, D and Construction Permit K. Private Easements necessary are from Ken and Marilyn Walsh, Gregory Starks and Janine Stephenson. Park Board Minutes - March 16, 1999 Page 4 MOTION: Parks Board moved to accept the River Trail Easements and recommend to the Mayor the acceptance of these easement proposals. Moved by Brockwell; supported by Leyrer. Motion carried. RIVER TRAIL NORTH LANSING- EASEMENTS Reickel explained that when the River Trail was built from Burchard Park northward four easements were signed but they were never submitted to Council for acceptance. MOTION: Parks Board moved to recommend acceptance of the River Trail North Easements to the Mayor. Moved by Brockwell; supported by Laurion. Motion carried. MSU CREW CLUB WATER LINE EASEMENT Reickel stated the MSU Crew Club is requesting a utility easement in order to provide water service to their building at Grand River Park. This easement will parallel the drive which serves the Clubs and the City Tree Nursery. MOTION: Parks Board moved to recommend to the Mayor that the MSU Crew Club Water Line Easement request be granted. Moved by Pollard; supported by Brockwell. Motion carried. TURNER DODGE/POTTER PARK ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY GRANT The Friends of Turner Dodge have applied for a grant for the Carriage House and the Potter Park Zoological Society has applied for a grant to enhance and provide more money for the Entrance Plaza. They have proceeded to submit this and the timing was of the essence. Both groups applied for these grants under their own names. MOTION: Parks Board moved to support the grants for Turner Doge and Potter Park Zoological Society. Moved by Brockwell; supported by Leyrer. Motion carried. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Demolition has started for the Groesbeck Starter House and the Department hopes to have the new Starter House completed by July 1. Director reminded the Board of the groundbreaking and encouraged Boardmembers to the groundbreaking for the Potter Park Zoo Exploration and Discovery Center for Education/Entrance Plaza on Thursday, March 18 at 11:00 a.m. The Forestry Section FY 97-98 Report was distributed. Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, will give an overview at the April meeting. Park Board Minutes - March 16, 1999 Page 5 BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS MOTION: Park Board moved to recommend to the Mayor to amend the lease on the Foster Park building to allow for the F.A.I.R. Neighborhood to share the building with the Greater Lansing Food Bank and The Garden Project. The Board also recommends building improvements be made to the restrooms. Moved by Leyrer; supported by Brockwell. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m. Submitted by: Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Minutes approved by Park Board May 19, 1999. PARK BOARD MINUTES MAY 19, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice, Robert Brockwell, Wilbur Howard, Mary James, Sally Laurion (7:10 p.m.), Ruth Leyrer, John Pollard, Earl Wolf (7:10 p.m.) OTHERS PRESENT: Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood; Rev. Phillip Owens & John Boles, Immanuel's Temple Community Church; Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager,Tanya Moore, Landscape Architect, R. Eric Reickel, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7.00 P.M., Scott Center, 125 W. Main St., Lansing STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Dorothy Jones of Moores Park Neighborhood wondered when the basketball nets would be put up in the park. Director of Parks and Recreation will investigate. BOARD MINUTES T-- J MOTION: Brockwell moved to approve the minutes of the March 16, 1999,be approved as presented; seconded by Laurion. =_- Motion carried. -; ADOPT-A-PARK PROGRAM �1 r- 07) - Tanya Moore, Landscape Architect, spoke to the Board regarding the successful r Adopt-a-Park kickoff and distributed handouts detailing the program. She also explained the "Mutt Mit" that was installed in Durant Park. The neighborhood group is responsible for restocking the dispenser. Howard also commented on the good the Neighborhoods in Bloom Program does to create interest in the park. James wondered which parks had been adopted. Comstock, Bancroft, Durant, Genesee, Moores, Ferris, Cherry Hill, Bluebell, Kirby Blvd. and others. FIVE YEAR PLAN Moore also noted it was time to prepare the five year plan. The Board was notified of the Committees. The committees are meeting. The action plan will soon be compiled. Each park site will be visited, maintenance needs and a cost estimates will also be included. A draft will be presented to the Board in either September or October for approval prior to a public hearing in front of City Council. The entire plan must be in place by March 1, 2000. Reickel stressed contacting Moore if board members had specific areas of interest. McKINCH PARK - IMMANUEL'S TEMPLE CHURCH This department bought property from the DNR prior to tax sale with a general concept Park Board Minutes - May 19, 1999 Page 2 of soccer fields and ball diamonds. This land added to the present park. This is not designed park land at this time. Rev. Phillip Owen spoke to the Board regarding the Church's vision. John Boles, Building Agent, was also present. They are 75% finished with their current building. Boles spoke explaining there is not a developed set of plans at this time. They would like to pursue things associated and sponsored by the church such as youth facilities in the south end of Lansing in conjunction with McKinch Park and also a senior housing complex involved with the Church. All facilities would be affiliated with the church. The church is 10 years old with 900 members. The church has the adjoining 20 acres to the parcel. They are concerned about the ditch also and want to incorporate the additional 20 acres in the site. They want to leave it natural as long as they can. They would like to look into adopting this park also. They want to acquire the land to pursue and develop their future plans. Reickel explained there is a reversionary clause in this deed from the DNR. The City of Lansing cannot sell it. It would go back to the DNR and then the DNR could sell the property. Reickel suggested the Board look at how the property fits into the City as the five year plan is developed with the church's offer in mind. Council has a directive in the new budget to analyze all park property and examine where surplus property could be disposed. An example would be Genesee Park next to Black Child and Family Institute. Filice explained that there is a tradition of walking the properties if there is a question of a change of status. Given that and the Five Year Plan development this is not something the Board takes lightly. Brockwell would like to walk the property also. Rev. Owens invited them to stop by the Church. Rev. Owens explained this park gets very little use. Reickel explained it would be a scheduled use if the site was developed by us. The Board thanked Rev. Owens and Mr. Boles. BOARD EVALUATION Brockwell presented a draft to the last meeting. Revisions were made a new draft distributed. This was for the July 1997 - June 1998. MOTION: Brockwell moved to approve this evaluation and forward it to the Mayor to be referred to Council as required by Charter, seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. FORESTRY UPDATE Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, reviewed the Forestry report of July 1997 to June 1998., and updated the Board on the current storm situation. There was a fall, full-leaf snow storm that damaged many city trees. Forestry's resources were devoted more than half the year to the results of that storm in October of 1997. In the past year many Park Board Minutes - May 19, 1999 Page 3 things were let go such as deadwood removal because there were much higher priorities. There were over 600 stumps that needed to be removed due to that storm. They were just beginning to feel like they were in a normal cycle and this May storm hit. The snowstorm took a lot of small material. This May storm took larger limbs and entire trees. There have been about 80 house/tree encounters. People are putting brush in the ROW now and the response is being discussed. Potter Park was closed immediately after the storm and is not open. There are too many dangerous areas with hangers. Until it has been inspected, it will remain closed. Pollard noted Lansing is a Tree City U.S.A. and we must take care of our trees. Dykema has asked for more equipment every year. This is the third time since October of 97 that there have been major forestry problems. Funding needs to be provided to handle situations such as this and provide support for the maintenance that is needed. The trees add value to neighborhoods and they need to be valued. MOTION: Pollard moved that the Board recommend to the Mayor that funding be increased to provide Forestry with more capacity to do their work, seconded by Howard. Motion carried. FEMALE BOX ELDER TREE ORDINANCE REVISION Dykema noted the current ordinance makes it illegal to have a female box elder tree growing within Lansing because they harbor box elder bugs. Box elder bugs are attracted to any warm surface (sides of homes) and do manage to find their way into buildings. Most people find these habits objectionable. At this time there is no concerted effort to rid Lansing of thousands of female box elder trees growing within the City. This ordinance is usually employed by one neighbor to cause trouble for another neighbor. We can enter property and order the trees to be removed once we receive a complaint. People under the threat of prosecution cut the trees, but do not remove the stump. The tree then resprouts. MOTION: Pollard moved the Board recommend to the Mayor this ordinance be rescinded; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. SCENIC CORRIDOR R.O.W. MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES/PROCEDURE REVISION Dykema explained on May 7, 1990, City Council passed a resolution adopting the Scenic Corridor R.O.W. Maintenance Guidelines and Procedures. One section of the guideline calls for a review of the document at five year intervals. That review has not taken place at this time. The existing Guidelines and Procedures have worked reasonably well and we recommend they be referred to Council for re-adoption. MOTION: James moved the Scenic Corridor R.O.W. Maintenance Guidelines and Procedures be recommended for readoption and referred to the Mayor for Park Board Minutes - May 19, 1999 Page 4 referral to the Council; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. GRUBS IN PARKS Pollard noted grubs are destroying the parks and wanted to know what was being done. Reickel explained very little was being done. Drought conditions are what caused the grubs to proliferate. They do not like dry conditions. GIER ADVISORY BOARD REQUEST APPROVAL OF PLAQUE - VERNA OZANICH Gier Advisory Board has requested approval to place a plaque in honor of Verna Ozanich in the concession area. Ms. Ozanich is a charter member of the Gier Advisory Board and has served for over 20 years. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Park Board support Gier Advisory Board's request; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. This will now advance to the Memorial Review Board. LAND ACQUISITION - 125 COTTAGE COURT (Grand River Frontage) This department has a long-standing policy of acquiring riverfront property and this is recommended for that purpose. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Board recommend acquisition of this land acquisition; seconded by Wolf. Motion carried. ELM STREET PROPERTY - tabled until 6/16/1999 CAPITAL AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY (FOSTER) The Capital Area District Library wishes to move from its present first floor room at Foster Center to the old nursery school room in the basement. This would provide them with a separate outside entrance and give them more room. In order to be able to do that, as the owner, we would need to make some structural modifications to accommodate this change. This would cost approximately $100,000. The administration has asked that the money come from the millage as it would be physical improvements to the Foster Center. As of this time we have not budgeted nor do we have any reserve to do this. We may be able to find money through the interest that is generated from the end of this quarter or the first of next year. Pollard wondered what the rental fee was. The Library pays a portion of the utilities only. Pollard wondered why we would spend $100,000 of millage funding on the library Park Board Minutes - May 19, 1999 Page 5 who has its own funding. Wolf wondered if there were other sources of funding. Approximately $1 million has been spent on Foster and James would like to know what is happening at this site. The Board recommended tabling this item and asking a representative from the Capital Area District Library to explain the value of this library specifically (and use) to the citizens. She doesn't want it to be a video center. BASEBALL PLAYER FEE - BATTER'S CAGE @ KIRCHER Kircher Ballfield has a new infield. The park is beautiful. The two batting cages are needed on each side for warm-ups. Reickel is recommending that $5,000 be taken from this fund to purchase batting cages. MOTION: Brockwell moved board recommend to Mayor and Council funding of $5,000 be used from the baseball player fees collected to purchase batting cages for Kircher Ballfield; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. SUMMER MEETING SCHEDULE Director noted the meetings during the summer conflict with the Concert in the Parks series. The Board agreed that it didn't work to meet on site. The Board asked to stay with the current month schedule on a month-by-month basis. LUGNUTS GAME - AUGUST 3, 1999 This is the evening for the game. INFORMATION ITEMS DISTRIBUTED OR DISCUSSED INCLUDED Super Soccer Plus Program - letter from Tony Noyola; Summer Golf Scholarships Available, Mayor's Family Riverwalk 6/5, Letter to Benjamin Amber (Amber Apartments/Ranney Park), Potter Park Zoological Society Income Statements 1/31/99 and 2/28/99; Community Activities Guide - summer 1999. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS Wolf would like to see a no-wake zone put in place at the area where the Rowing Club is at Grand River Park. He also noted a lot of tree and bank erosion. Reickel will talk to persons at the rowing club to discuss this. Filice commented why there is such a bad system for budget hearings before Council. She wondered if this was the way to keep citizens away. Meeting adjourned 8:55 P.M. Submitted by Approved 6/16/99. Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary PARK BOARD MINUTES JUNE 16, 1999 -- MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice, Wilbur Howard, Mary James, Sally Laurion (7:35 P.M.), Earl Wolf MEMBERS ABSENT: Robert Brockwell (excused), Ruth LWI; (u�r�e� Cus )Kohn Pollard (unexcused) OTHERS PRESENT: Melissa Barnard, Capital Area District Library; R. Eric Reickel, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:15 P.M., Scott Center, 125 W. Main St., Lansing CAPITAL AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY (FOSTER) (tabled 5/19/99) Melissa Barnhard of the Capital Area District Library spoke to the Board regarding CADL wish to move from the first floor room at Foster Center to the old nursery school room in the basement. This would provide them with a separate outside entrance so they would be able to be open different hours from Foster Center. Currently the center is not open on Saturdays during the summer and this would be a high use time. It would open another meeting room on the first floor. It would also double the space available for the library. Barnhard distributed copies of the hours and explained some of the programs being offered. In order to accommodate CADL, we would need to make some structural modifications. This would cost approximately $100,000. The administration has asked that the money come from the millage as it would be physical improvements to the Foster Center. Reickel noted CADL does pay some utility cost and some janitorial cost. Barnard explained that the agreement between the City of Lansing and Ingham County when the CADL was formed was that as the founders that signed the document establishing CADL, the City of Lansing and Ingham County took responsibility for providing the facilities. The governing body (city, village, township, etc.) provides the building. This is in the written agreement signed by the City and County and the CADL Board and the State Librarian as part of the agreement. CADL pays utilities and maintenance for all buildings, provides staff and materials, and buys any equipment needed to enhance services. Filice would think it is the responsibility of the City of Lansing, not the Parks Millage. Reickel explained the administration felt that the improvements would be made to the community center and millage funds would be appropriate. Reickel asked that information on use of the library and any other pertinent information be sent to him to forward to the Board. Reickel also thanked Melissa Barnhard for her good work on the Foster Advisory Board. BOARD MINUTES Tanya Moore, Landscape Architect, was added under "Others Present." Park Board Minutes - June 16, 1999 Page 2 MOTION: James moved to approve the minutes of May 19, 1999; seconded by Laurion. Motion carried. Minutes of other department board meetings to be placed on file. ELM STREET PROPERTY (tabled 5/19/99) A letter from Vlahakis Companies was received requesting the City consider selling vacant land on Elm Street known as Parcel #3301-21-178-021-1. This property is from the DNR and has no park value. If the City of Lansing no longer wishes to retain the property it will revert back to the DNR for sale. MOTION: James moved the Park Board recommend this parcel be declared surplus property and it be turned back to the DNR for sale so it will be placed back on the tax roles; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. GREATER LANSING LABOR COUNCIL A letter was received from the GLLC requesting the placement of a plaque in the alcove on the southeast side of Wentworth Park adjacent to Michigan Avenue. This plaque is requested to recognize the men and women of the State who have lost their lives on the job. MOTION: Howard moved the Board recommend approval of this request; seconded by Wolf. Motion carried. BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB FUNDING REALLOCATION $656,000 was turned back to the City of Lansing from the Boys and Girls Club because the pool was not being built. Discussion followed at Council to allocate this money equally between the four wards. The wording of the resolution is as follows: "Within the Park Millage Fund (412), the recommended funding for a Skating/BMX facility of $100,000 is revised to provide for non-site specific "seed money" for a skating facility of $56,000. Remaining funds from Boys and Girls Club funding Parks Millage funding is appropriated to the millage contingency. The Parks and Recreation Director is requested to make recommendations for use of these funds in accordance with the Department's and Parks Board's priorities, allocating funds among the four wards in an equal a manner as is possible." Due to this, $656,000 needs to be relocated to other current or proposed projects. The Department's recommendation follows: City Wide Projects: Skating Facility $ 56,000 Park Board Minutes - June 16, 1999 Page 3 Potter Park Zoo Entry Complex Contingency 125,000 (250,000) Need for entry complex contingency $125,000 in change orders so far. Zoo Society will donate an additional $75,000. Relocated from an expense millage project $50,000. Foster Library Renovations 100,000 Capital Area District Library needs more room and wishes to move to basement area. Administration requested millage dollars. Washington Ice Screw Compressor 124,000 (146,000) Original compressor needs replacing. River Trail East (design/construction inspection) 45,000 Ward Projects: Gier Air Conditioning Unit Replacement 46,000 Wards 1 & 4 Playgrounds (Project Play) Seventh 30,000 Ward 1 Kaynorth 30,000 Ward 2 Waldo 10,000 Ward 2 Hillborn 20,000 Ward 3 Risdale 30,000 Ward 3 Tecumseh 30,000 Ward 4 Ferris Basketball Court 10,000 Ward 4 $3,000 leverage with Kellogg Donation. Total $656,000 There are some projects that are not being recommended. Howard noted that the programs that serve people always suffer. He was concerned about the City as a whole and didn't feel funds should be allocated on a Ward basis. Howard wondered if we should compile a list as to who gets the benefits of the funding by age. MOTION: Moved by Wolf that the projects listed be recommended as per the directive of the Council Resolution for a total of$656,000, and that any funds not expended from this appropriation be turned back to the millage account, and that the Board does not support the concept of dispersing this money on a Ward-by-Ward basis but should deal with the Five Year Plan/Capital Improvement priorities and City-wide priorities; seconded by James. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes - June 16, 1999 Page 4 BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS The Board thanked Sally Laurion for her years of diligence and attention to the betterment of the park and also thanked her for her stewardship. Filice noted it has been a personal privilege to have gotten to know her better. Eric Reickel expressed the Department's appreciation for her attendance at dedications and special events. James commented the planned 4th of July festivities sound wonderful. James left the meeting. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Information on Riverfront Park Acquisition of the old Conrail ROW segment running through the Park from Shiawassee Street to Oakland Avenue including the bridge was distributed. The 3rd Annual Mayor's Walk was very successful with over 1,200 people present. Pictures were available. Potter Park Zoo Golf Outing at Walnut Hills was well attended and very successful. Also distributed was the 4th of July and Apple Pie information and the info on the outdoor community pools. Grand River Park restrooms will soon have electric timed locks. A purchase order has been issued. Director did call Larry Sierra who is responsible for the MSU Men's Crew Club regarding the no-wake issue. Filice noted it would not be proper for another May to go by without her commenting on the Parades into the 21 st Century. It is a shame this parade is just prior to the Memorial Day Parade. Adjourned at 8:30 P.M. Respectfully submitted ' `-�� Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved August 25, 1999. PARK BOARD MINUTES AUGUST 25, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice, Robert Brockwell, Wilbur Howard, Mary James, Ruth Leyrer (7:07 P.M.) i -.; MEMBERS ABSENT: Kris Nicholoff (excused), John Pollard (excused) Y C L E R OTHERS PRESENT: Michael Markey, J & L Investment; Tom Stanton, Christina Carra, Urban Options; Don Vanacker, Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council (Mid-MEAC): Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Association; Howard Jones; Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, R. Eric Reickel, Director. CALL TO ORDER: 7:05 P.M., Scott Center, 125 W. Main St., Lansing ECO PARK PROJECT Don VanAcker spoke to the Board to explain eco parks. They employ ecological technology improvements in the local parks and public and private facilities surrounding parks. Goals include public education, demonstration of sustainable technologies, systems and environmental remediation of the river and its banks, and recreation. Features of the park would be such things as solar lightings for the paths and signs or solar water heaters for restrooms. Filice noted Leyrer arrived at 7:07 P.M. Christina Carra of Urban Options spoke in support of the eco park concept. Tom Stanton, energy conservation/renewable energy professional and a member of Mayor Hollister's energy conservation board, was also present. Brockwell noted the brochure that was distributed has areas identified along the trail for displays and wondered if there were noticeable areas that were targeted. The group sees the river trail as a starting point but wants to use their concepts through the entire park system. James wondered what are the top 10 things we should be doing or how are we wasting energy. Not answered. The group wants input on all park projects and cooperation/sponsorship with letters of support to apply for grants. Filice welcomes their involvement but wondered if they had a funding source. Responded that they are working on obtaining funding and would like the Board's support for grant funding and would like Parks & Recreation funding as well. Howard recommended that the group work with the Director. James noted the department is working on the five year master plan. If there is something that should be blended with ecological concerns this is the time to work toward this. Director asked the group to contact Tanya Moore regarding the plan. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS FROM AGENDA National Bicycle League Presentation - tabled until 9/22/99. Park Board Minutes - August 25, 1999 Page 2 Immanuel's Temple Community Church Easement - Planning Board tabled this issue last night. Michael Markey, J & L Investment, has title that indicates they have an interest in this property. Tabled. Election of Officers - tabled until 9/22/99. Add -Annual Report, Foster Dedication of Mary Margaret Murphy Woll Room, Crego Park update. BOARD MEETING SEPTEMBER DATE - Board decided to meet the fourth Wednesday in September at Gier Community Center. The meeting will be September 22, 1999, at Gier Center. GREATER LANSING CONVENTION BUREAU - RIVER TRAIL SIGNAGE The GLCVB would like to place signs on the River Trail directing people to their new office on Turner Street. Director recommends the signs be approved as they are tasteful and needed. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Board recommend staff work with GLCVB to place signs on the River Trail with the signs being maintained by the GLCVB; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. MINUTES MOTION: Howard moved the Park Board minutes of June 16, 1999, be approved as presented; seconded by Brockwell. Motion carried. MOTION: Brockwell moved the other department board minutes be received; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. STORM DAMAGE REPORT Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, reported that routine maintenance has been suspended and the section is still performing storm damage repair and will be until November. There are thousands of hanging limbs. Fifty to seventy percent of the trees have sustained some type of damage or a broken or hanging limb. They have had crews working on removals since the storm began last in May of 1999. There are several hundred street trees that need to be removed this fall. This will delay park removals. Suggested solutions are extra contract help and more overtime for current crews. There have been over 240 removals since the storm. This is what is normally removed in one year. There are situations where limbs are cracked but cannot be seen in drive-by inspections. Park Board Minutes - August 25, 1999 Page 3 MOTION: James moved the Forestry Report be forwarded to the Mayor and request more funding be authorized due to the public safety issues and the liability if the city fails to act; seconded by Brockwell. Motion carried. Dykema also noted the Forestry Section has had great difficulties in filling forestry positions. There have been two vacancies for some time. Director noted they are working on a training program with Personnel. Howard suggested this two years ago. Filice thought this issue should be addressed in the Five Year Plan on ways to replace skilled aging workers. NO WAKE ZONE (aa GRAND RIVER PARK Former Board member Wolf had asked about this issue and Director obtained the procedure from DNR. The procedure was discussed with MSU Crew and Dr. Miller and information was faxed to Dr. Miller for follow-up if the group desires. ANNUAL EVALUATION OF THE DEPARTMENT BY THE PARK BOARD This report must be submitted by December 1 per the Charter. Discussion followed on what the report evaluates and the required content. Brockwell volunteered to do the evaluation this year, but noted this obligation should be rotated among the Board. INGHAM COUNTY PARKS BOARD RESOLUTION The Ingham County Park Board encourages the expansion of the River Trail from Potter River Trail to Hawk Island Park. FOSTER DEDICATION - MARY MARGARET MURPHY WOLL ROOM This will take place September 23, 1999, from 5:30 - 7:00 P.M. The Board is invited. CREGO PARK PROBLEMS This is becoming an issue with Fidelity Lake. This is fenced off and the park is not open. There are adjoining property owners who are disturbed by the traffic that sneaks into the park. This park cannot be opened and developed without additional staff. It will be addressed in the five year plan. HOLLY PARK PLAY EQUIPMENT Holly Park group asked for play equipment. Department is meeting with group and this will be put in the CIP for the next fiscal year. Leyrer though the play equipment installation was completed. Director explained it is ongoing and will bring an update of the Project PLAY sites to the next Park Board meeting. Leyrer wanted a list of the groups who were denied equipment such as Bancroft. Director explained Bancroft was not denied. The equipment was placed at Porter during that time. Bancroft is still on the list to be placed. The Friends of Bancroft Park were involved in this decision. Park Board Minutes - August 25, 1999 Page 4 SKATE PARK CONSTRUCTION/MASTER PLAN 50/50 EAST LANSING A skate park consultant will be working with the City to review several sites including Davis, Gier, Ferris and Ranney. Also, the City of East Lansing agreed to work pay for 50 percent of the cost of a master plan. There will be public input. INFORMATION The Board received a letter to Harold Brown regarding purchase of property; Executive Order regarding Preference for Lansing Based Businesses, and Turner Dodge Student Quotes on Before Freedom Came: African Life in the Antebellum South. Director reminded Board of the Turner-Dodge auction on October 24. Concert in the Parks were discussed. Filice wanted the record to reflect the Board commends Murdock Jemerson and his staff for the successful Concerts in the Park series. PARK BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS James noted at Pine and Kalamazoo there were four skateboarders trying to find somewhere to skate when she left. Perhaps Ferguson could be contacted to contribute to the cause. One of four were aware of the skate park. Director noted a demonstration will be given on Saturday, September 18, by a leading skateboarder James noted Joan Sheldon at Durant Park is running low on MuttMitts. James expressed outrage to the Board the peonies at the right-of-way of Jenison and Genesee have been cut down. James asked that as an orientation for the Board for the Five Year Plan, a review what was carried out and what was bumped from the current plan would be helpful. Filice noted previously the Board had a Saturday in-service to discuss this. Howard visited the Turner-Dodge and was so impressed he joined the Friends group. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Dorothy Jones was concerned that there is no action taking place to bring the river trail to Moores Park. Director instructed her to look at the. Elm Street bridge to see the activity. The trail will be at Moores soon. She also asked that the Board walk down the bleachers at the Moores Pool to see the improvements. Jones also asked for better communication to people who have adopted parks explaining the group is very unhappy about Tanya Moore's decision to label one of the pieces of playground equipment as unsafe. She met with her and believes it is on hold. The school district was not aware of this pending removal. The school board members were most distressed to not learn about it through official channels. Park Board Minutes - August 25, 1999 Page 5 Filice asked for clarification if the School Board Members were distressed because they were not informed that playground equipment on school property was being removed. Jones noted it was not school property but was combined school/park sites. Reickel explained this was an issue at Moores School particularly. This issue has been discussed and that active neighborhood associations should be informed when we are making changes. The Department apologized for that and staff has met with those involved regarding this issue of the play equipment. This issue has been handled. The equipment is being removed because it violates federal safety standards. Reickel wanted it made clear that Tanya Moore was doing her job as the Playground Safety Inspector to enforce the standards for playground safety. The City is very liable for equipment that does not meet the safety standards. Previously the City just removed unsafe equipment with no notification whatsoever. Now we do put stickers on that alerts people that the equipment will be removed and if there is a question to call the number on the sticker. As he had mentioned previously, he does agree if there is a neighborhood group, it is good policy to contact the group and explain the removal. We have learned that, have apologized and are going forward. Reickel noted the Parks Department has had very good communication with David Finney of the Lansing School District. Jones stated she was expecting to get one of the holders for the MuttMitts. Reickel noted this was a test site at Durant and others have not been ordered. There are budget implications. Jones then stated that when neighbors make the effort to adopt the park, they should be contacted to participate in the five year plan. James feels it is a reasonable idea to look at the adopt-a-park issue in the five year plan and critique it. Reickel noted it is a brand new.concept. Filice noted that at the beginning of August the Riverside/Moores Neighborhood Association had a meeting regarding the bank stabilization at Frances Park. It was very well attended. Her concern was that many issues and concerns were brought up but not answered. Director explained they have acted on the input from the group. Meeting adjourned at 9:10 P.M. Respectfully submitted: Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved 9/22/99. PARK BOARD MINUTES SEPTEMBER 22, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice, Robert Brockwell, Wilbur Howard, Mary James;`.. : ,­, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott (excused late arrival at 8:30), John Pollard, MEMBERS ABSENT: Kris Nicholoff(excused) CLEf4„ OTHERS PRESENT: Greater Lansing Shuffleboard Club - Jack Murphy, Casey Moubray, Earl Burley Lansing Boat Club - Jim Hepfer, Fred Adams, Betty Bublitz Gier Advisojy Board - Claude Ramey, Roberta&Brad Streeter Donna Peterman National Bicycle League - Carolyn Mundt BMX- Brian&Debbie Haught, David &Margaret Cary, Jeneva Cary, Jonathan Cary, Rob & Kitty Cronk, Josh Bender, Heather McKenzie, Dan Lienerth, Olivia&Danny Hendy, Steve Ross, Brenda Hanford, Brandon Hanford, Jason Hanford, Jeffrey Schmits, Brandon Shand, Laura Zapoli, Lisa Kapinski, Jon Greene, Cory Daggott, Jose& C.J. Colon, Ben Cary, Kasey& Kyle Streeter Skateboards - Jeremy Blacvie Did not list group or area of interest - Jo Hacker, June Knostman, Floyd D. Wright, Peter C. Sullivan, John H. Bublitz, Chris & Bryan Maltby, John Nash, Peter O'Mally, Sal Durso, Linda Montalvo, Ronald Cronk, Adria Libolt, Karen DeVine, Gloria Rozeboom, Kristin Sullivan, Luke Schafer, Norrene O'Malley, Patrick Mitchell, Joyce & James Blair, Pete Bosheff Department Staff-R. Eric Reickel, Director; Phil Dorland, Deputy Director; Murdock Jemerson, Leisure Services Manager CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M. Gier Community Center, 2400 Hall Street STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS: Jim Hepfer, Commodore of Lansing Boat Club, informed the Board the Club is still in pursuit of a long-term lease. The Club has been at the site for over 54 years, has been a good tenant and would like to remain at this site. James requested an update on the status of the lease negotiations. Director noted at this point in time there has been no action on the lease. James wondered what the "game plan" was. Director explained the Mayor has deferred action on a long-term lease at this time. Jack Murphy, President of the Greater Lansing Shuffleboard Club, wanted questions answered on why the Club is having difficulty getting action from the Department and why they must go through the grant process if they want items. Director explained this time is for citizen input. Murphy can explain his concerns to the Board and the Board will respond, but questions will not be answered at this time. Murphy stated he had asked the secretary if he could speak, but now he is being told his questions cannot be answered and someone will get back with him. Murphy stated the department does not get back with him except for one letter. Filice noted the department has a long association with the shuffleboard club and has tried to answer their needs. The Board is happy to discuss further concerns but encouraged Murphy to place the questions and concerns of the Club on the October agenda so the concerns could be answered. Filice noted the September 21" letter had been received according to Mr. Reickel. Murphy was displeased his concerns would not be answered at this time and felt this is something they go through every year Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 2 with no support. Director noted a major renovation was done at Moores Park several years ago. The Club's input was given and welcomed and the courts were upgraded. Reickel asked that it not be misrepresented that the City has not been responsive to the group's needs. Filice noted It has been her experience for the past 18 years that the City has worked diligently to make sure the shuffleboard members have been adequately represented regarding their recreational needs. She urged them to place their concerns on next month's agenda. Comments on Frances Park Shoreline Project Karen DeVine spoke about concerns regarding Frances Park renovations. Her major concern is that she be advised on the pedestrian pathway through the park. Peter Sullivan, 2100 Moores River Dr., is concerned about the pedestrian pathway. He also is concerned regarding the speed of the vehicles on Moores River Drive and is aware of a traffic study being conducted. He wondered when the residents would be informed of this study. He stated many agree with the park improvements but feel minor modifications need to take place. He is concerned there will be more traffic on Moores River Drive going at a greater rate of speed. He has young children, and feels the traffic issues should be addressed at the same time as the improvements. Also, there is the issue of the gate and a barrier on the south side of the road. There is no need for 40 parking spaces. The neighborhood is supportive of the project with minor adjustments. Boardmember Howard stated that the parks are for everyone in the City. If there is a problem getting to the park, it is a traffic or police issue. The Board is to serve everyone in the city no matter where they live. They are concerned with the area residents, but the park belongs to all the people. Filice reminded all that during comments from citizens, is a time for the public to give their input and express their opinions to the Board. It is not a time for discussion, debate or a time to answer questions. Gloria Rozeboom, 1607 Moores River Drive, was concern about the proposed changes to park by the river on Moores River Drive. She sees people fishing there all the time and she feels 40 parking places are too many. They have never seen more than 10 or 12 cars there in the past. It is nice as it is gravel and a pleasant place for people to fish. If there is paving it will lose some of its charm. Filice stated there are 40 spaces in the existing gravel parking lot. The number of spaces has been reduced to 30 due to the concern of the neighborhood. Director noted the main reason for this project is bank restoration. With the random parking on gravel, it contributed to the erosion. This will also provide a safer situation. Director also noted it will be gated due to the request of the neighborhood. The concerns about traffic are for Mr. Berridge (Transportation). Sal Durso, 1829 Moores River Dr., spoke regarding Howard's comments. He agrees parks are for everyone but notes the action of the Park Board as concerns what they do have an effect on the traffic. So although traffic issues may need to be dealt with separately, there should be some congruence as decisions are made as to what to do with parking spots and access to the park. He is concerned about the number of parking spaces and that there is access for joggers and bikers from the park and from Cambridge to the park. A tremendous amount of consideration should be Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 3 given to the traffic and speed as the improvements will be a draw for more citizens to go to that area. Director noted this is a joint project with Parks and Recreation and Public Service. The input from the last community meeting was very significant. The traffic engineer had not been involved previously and now he is. Kristin Sullivan, 2100 Moores River Drive, also noted she is very concerned about the walkways and pedestrian ways to get from Cambridge to Frances Park. There are so many people running in this area, and it is a shame that people have to run on the side of a slope to get out of the way. June Knostman, 1521 Cambridge, asked if it was true that this is the last evening that the neighborhood will be able to have input as to this question. She feels that many were absent when this was being discussed and the neighbors would feel more comfortable if they knew what was going on. Director noted Knostman is on the Public Service Board, and it is their project. Director noted the drawings are still available in the Public Service Department, and this has been a very open project from the beginning. Tom Kosavich, 2117 Moores River Drive, spoke as to the parking spaces being a formal parking lot now. His concern is the safety of the people who will use this parking lot in conjunction with Frances Park. He asked if the roadway was being moved to enlarge the parking lot and how much timber would be removed and quoted a portion of language from the deed. Chairperson Filice passed the gavel to Vice Chairperson Howard. The issue regarding Moores River Drive came about when the pavilion was being restored five or six years ago. At that time it was determined while efforts were being made to repair the pavilion in the same style as it was first created, the Board and the department went to great lengths to repair the pavilion. At that time a number of other issues related to Frances Park—one being the overflow parking lot and the deplorable condition of Moores River Drive and the serious concern of the City for the stability of Moores River Drive. It does need repair. At the beginning of this discussion, a pedestrian path was presented with a running path along Moores River Drive where the fire hydrants exist. This was suggested so that people who wanted to use the pedestrian way could access Moores River Drive in a safe manner having parking only on one side of the street and that would be the side without fire hydrants. This would create a safe access for all children, runners, anyone who wished to use the road to access the park. This park has been one of the greatest philanthropic gifts that the city ever received. As long as she can remember, no one has ever suggested closing off Moores River Drive. We are working in a cooperative manner so that the best interests of all users of the park may be presented and promoted. She hopes that all who are concerned about this issue will keep this in mind and will place this matter on the October agenda so the designers, the landscape architects, the neighborhood traffic can come together and discuss this issue in a rational and sane manner for the betterment of the 21"generation. Jo Hacker 3301 Moores River Drive expressed concern over the plan but her main topic was Ralph Crego Park, Mr. Crego was a Councilmember and Mayor for many years. Hacker requested the Board to reconsider opening Crego Park now that the toxic waste has been cleaned up. Filice requested the Director address these concerns. Director noted he has met with Ms. Hacker and that at this time there is not money to open this park. There is pressure to open this park, but to open it will create a need for more personnel to manage and maintain it. We are going to place new signage at the park and make it more visible in relation to commemorating Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 4 Ralph Crego calling it a nature preserve rather than a park. Our ultimate goal is to integrate it with Fenner Nature Center. Filice asked if people wanted to change the status of the park, how could they go about doing that for purposes of the five year plan. Director noted persons can contact our office, verbally or in writing. Tanya Moore is coordinating the process. Any letters of interest would be recorded. BMX PRESENTATION Carolyn Mundt of the National Bicycle League was in attendance to make a presentation. Brian and Debbie Haught were also present who have taken the parent leadership. Mundt is the Commissioner of Michigan NBL and is from Grand Rapids. She is excited to be here and is excited with the turnout. A VCR tape was played explaining BMX and NBL. NBL helps with the design of the track, helps with funding and teaches safety. They will train people to promote safety rules and provide rulebooks. NBL also provides insurance. It is a good program. What they need is the park and area's acceptance. This is a family activity. The oldest rider is over 50 and the youngest rider in Michigan is 3. This area used to have two tracks. The objective is challenge yourself first and not worry about what others are doing. They involve the schools, the police departments, scouting groups, anyone that wants to be involved. A race takes about two hours once per week. The local parent organizations determine practices. James asked how much a BMX track would cost. Mundt replied an average track costs about $25,000. NBL does this without government help. NBL designs and gets contributions; however, NBL would like a signed lease for the land. NBL will not sanction or permit a licensed track without a parent organization involved. Brockwell wondered how much it would cost a young person to ride their bike on the track after school. NBL mandates that if you participate in a licensed practice or a licensed race you must have an NBL membership. It is $35 per year. Race fees are in addition. Mundt noted the program will figure a way for the youth who cannot afford the fee to participate. Fees are used to maintain the track and NBL also receives $1 per rider to provide race forms and things that are needed for a consistent and safe race including scorepads, insurance, and membership forms. The races must be scheduled. Brockwell wondered if the track would only be for races. Mundt noted it was not up to her as most courses are open. This would be put in the lease as to the guidelines of hours and who will use the course and the days it is open. Pollard wondered if a non-member can ride. Director explained they could if they are appropriately equipped. Pollard wanted to know an estimate of how many people would use this per hour. Mundt noted at National Races 1,500 people can go around the track. It will bring business into Lansing. Pollard noted the City has allocated $56,000 for alternative sports (BMX, in-line and skateboarding). Pollard is in favor of this. Brian Haught, representing Capitol Area BMX Parents Association, spoke in support of this track. The parents' association has 150 people in support of this concept, is moving forward to obtain non-profit status and hope this can be settled this fall. Brockwell noted the parent group was an essential part in having the park built and wondered if there was a requirement of the number of parents involved. Mundt explained the Parent Board must consist of at least nine adults over 18 years of age. Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 5 Donna Peterman, Gier Advisory Board, asked how many people would be involved or in the area on a race day? Mundt explained it would depend on the type of race. She thought it would begin with about 100 riders in races. One rider will bring at least one parent. In the beginning it would be approximately 300 people and then up to 2,000 for major regional races. Mundt also explained that the track would need to be fenced. The exact location and parking requirements were discussed. Claude Ramey, Gier Advisory Board (member since 1978), is not against this because he supports anything for the kids. He does not feel there is room at the chosen site for this track. There are three ballfields. When there are tournaments on the weekends, there isn't enough parking now. He is concerned about the exact location of the track. James noted this should be discussed with the advisory board. At the last five year plan meetings, Ramey spoke about the deplorable restroom situation. The Park Board listened, and the restrooms were replaced. This is a meeting to discuss the concept. The Otto parking lot is empty all summer, after school and on weekends. It would be thrilling to think about using the school for parking because there is so much activity. To have the facilities used and the citizens served is the goal of the advisory board and the Park Board. James noted this sounds like a good idea and she respects Ramey and what the advisory boards do. This meeting was held at Gier because we are all in this together. Details can be worked out so all have their say. The Park Board will then make a recommendation after listening to all sides. Ron Lott joined the Board at 8:25 P.M. Chairperson Filice welcomed Mr. Lott's return to the Park Board and the Board is looking forward to working with him. Kyle Streeter of 2312 Hall St., had a question about about BMX and Mundt responded it will be handled at the Parents meeting in October. Chris Maltby, of 1250 Rodicdon, DeWitt, thought it would keep many kids off property were they are currently riding illegally. Brian Maltby, felt if the track is built, it should be open all the time. The kids would be able to have more practice time. Dan Lienerth, 1845 Red Bud Lane, Lansing, stated he grew up near a track in Indiana that was open all the time. There were never any serious injuries and it worked very well. Normally there are experienced people out there. He and his wife have taught clinics in the past. He is interested in working with all to make it work at this location. Heather McKenzie, ProWoman in racing since 1980. The biggest concern she has heard is the number of people. If an event was scheduled that would draw large crowds, it is planned in advance to make arrangements. Local racing does not draw that large of a crowd. They have done clinics in Flint, Grand Rapids and Oscoda but haven't done one here because there isn't a track. She gets discouraged with the negativity because she sees what a positive impact this sport has on children and has seen it for 20 years. Katherine Kronk, Preston Avenue, lives close and sees the kids riding in the woods, building ramps, in the streets. They are everywhere riding and the kids need this. Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 6 Pete Bosheff, 227 Custer, Lansing, wanted to give the Board some points of information. The Lansing Area Skate Bike Recreation Foundation is the original group who for the last year came together with location committees and various committees. At that time it was mislabeled "Extreme Sports". None of these sports are extreme. They look at their effort as an umbrella which captures the alternative sports. BMX racing is really a separate issue because NBL is so powerfully organized they can split off and accomplish their objectives. The Foundation is completely behind this and hope they can work together. There are many different styles of BMX and NBL will handle the racing portion. Debbie Haught, 226 Mosley, thanked the Board for the opportunity to speak including all the parents present. She reiterated they are having a meeting October 6 at 6:30 P.M. She distributed cards so the Parent Group Board can be contacted easily. She requested the Gier Advisory Board work with them also and hoped the Board will come to their meetings. Brockwell commented to the Gier Advisory Board that this is an opportunity for additional concessions for the Board if it is done right. Motion: Brockwell moved that the Board concur with the concept of a BMX track at Gier Park, that more information(topo map, layout, etc.) be gathered, and it be forwarded to the Mayor for approval to be forwarded to Council; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. A short break was taken by the Board. MINUTES MOTION: Brockwell moved the Park Board minutes of August 25, 1999, be approved as presented; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. MOTION: Brockwell moved the other department board minutes be received; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Filice stated she has been honored to be the Chairperson of the Park Board and requested nominations for the coming year. Brockwell asked if Vice Chairperson Howard was interested in the nomination for the Chairperson. Howard declined. Brockwell nominated James for the Chair. James accepted nomination. MOTION: Brockwell moved the nominations be closed for chairperson of the Park Board and ballot taken for James as chairperson; seconded by Filice. Motion carried. Mary James took over the office as the Chairperson of the Park Board. Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 7 Howard nominated Brockwell. Brockwell accepted. MOTION: Howard moved the nominations be closed for vice chairperson of the Park Board and that a ballot be taken for Brockwell as Vice Chairperson; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. GRANT AMENDMENTS - RIVER TRAIL WEST The Michigan Trust Fund grant for the River Trail from Spring to Elm St. (TF 95-122) needs to be amended to include additional land area. Due to changes in the actual route of the trail new easements were secured resulting in the project boundary of the grant being altered. In the section of the River Trail West from Elm Street to Moores Park the Trust Fund agreement (TF- 97-027) needs to be amended to reflect proper title. The original agreement incorrectly stated the city has fee simple title to the property. Because the City has easements to the property rather than fee simple, the revise is intended to correctly reflect this. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Board recommend amending the City's original agreement from"fee simple" to "easements to the property"; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. PARKS AND RECREATION FIVE YEAR MASTER PLAN Phil Dorland explained the department is in the process of updating the Five Year Master Plan which is primarily used to apply for MDNR grants. It is also used to assist us in determining what capital improvement projects to advance to the Mayor and Council in the budget process for the next fiscal year. A timetable was included with the packet along with the past and current committees. After discussion, the Board decided to hold a separate work session on Tuesday, October 26 at 5:00 P.M. at Foster Community Center. The regular Park Board meeting will be Wednesday, October 27 at 7:00 P.M. at Letts Community Center. What is not completed on Tuesday will be finished at the regular meeting on Wednesday. Park Master Plan Priority Guidelines were adopted and modified from the city wide infrastructure priorities adopted by City Council with the 1994-1995 budget. Pollard wondered what the difference was in the City Charter regarding sale of property and the 1979 policy. He was quite concerned that this would allow park land to be sold without a vote of the people. He is concerned that Council could undedicate park land. Dorland explained the Charter was adopted in 1978. Following that Council adopted an ordinance regarding acquisition and disposal of land to be consistent with the City Charter. As part of that, Council also adopted the Policy on Park Acquisition and Development Policy on December 10, 1979. This was consistent with the recommendation from the Park Board of that time. The ordinance and policy will be provided at the next meeting. The City Council has the authority to amend ordinances and policies. The electorate can change the Charter. James asked about the Park Board policy on disposal of land. Dorland explained that the Board did look at some parcels during the last review of the plan and considered them for disposal. Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page S Pollard had heard Councilmember Adado request the Director to look at park land and determine which ones we need and which ones we don't. Pollard feels the quickest way to get off City Council is to mess with the people's parks—the City of Lansing designated parks. James pointed out the Board had not received Jemerson's complete report on the completed priorities. This will be rectified. Dorland explained there will be Goal, Deficiency and Need Statements presented at the next Board meeting. A preliminary listing of projects will also be provided. James asked for these in advance. BUDGET FY 2001 Staff suggested that the Park Board be asked if they have any priorities that should be included in the budget process. The Board should have the opportunity to bring those forth now. The Charter says that by October 1, the City Council is to forward their priorities to the Mayor's Office. Staff wanted the Park Board to have the same opportunity to advise the Mayor of the Board's priorities. Howard would like to see something specifically done for seniors. If it takes staffing, do it. He would like to see Lansing with a larger senior program. Brockwell thought this Council may be more in favor of senior programs. Pollard would like to see more restroom facilities. Dorland wanted to know if he had any specific locations in mind. Pollard felt they should be available on a wide spread basis with more evening and weekend staff. Also, he would like a priority for Forestry. Filice is concerned there are no tennis facilities on the north side of the City of Lansing. Nothing farther north than Letts Center. Brockwell would like to see a little more care at the Scott Center. This should be a showplace. Jemerson spoke regarding new program concept of the Mid Michigan Football League. He also explained our current involvement in the girls' basketball program at YWCA and a possible inquiry to AIM High Academy. Pollard noted lack of clerical support at various locations but sugggested it be made clear how many full time employees are needed and were they will be located. The Youth Development Programming has replaced fun and games for the children. Staff should spend time letting them be children rather than convincing them to be adults. James noted she also disagreed with the wording of these programs and that they should be fun for the children. Pollard also feels too much money is being spent on kids kamps, but we shouldn't charge children. Pollard also had comments on the special interest groups using the parks including six day music fesitval, Summer Kids Thing and Indian Pow Wow. Pollard does not understand why Parks and Recreation always has to find the funding and staff for others' programs when we cannot get funding for our own programs? Howard suggested that he and Pollard make an appointment with the Mayor and inform him of the Board's concern. Pollard will contact Howard. Park Board Minutes - September 22, 1999 Page 9 James requested the issue of the public landscaped areas be addressed (areas such as boulevards or islands that are not in front of a major park). The Budget Calendar was also mailed to the Board. It is listed the November 17 meeting the Board will receive CIP and designate fund projects for review and action. When this was initially put together we did not have a date the CIP was due. It is due October 28. As the Board is meeting on October 26 and 27, CIP will be presented at that time for Board action. DIRECTOR'S REPORT The Director, R. Eric Reickel, is retiring as of March 20, 2000. Project PLAY Status Report was sent to their packets. East Lansing and Lansing held a Ranney Park Master Plan input meeting 9/21/99 and it went very well. It seems all the groups found they can work together. The Skateboard Exhibition went wonderfully Saturday, 9/17/99 with Andy McDonald. There were probably 1,000 people present over the course of the exhibition. Information on Moores Basketball sent to the Board so they were aware the department had acted on Ms. Jones concerns in June. INFORMATION Information had been sent to the Board regarding a letter to Senator Byrum regarding zoo signage, a commendation to the golf course staff on pollution prevention from Governor Engler, a flyer from Friends of Turner Dodge Mystery Dinner and the Family Christmas. Also a reminder Apple Butter is October 16 and 17. The Fenner Acquisition is moving forward and looks like it will be successful. The River Trail West is moving along beautifully. REMARKS BY BOARD MEMBERS -No additional remarks. Meeting adjourned 9:45 P.M. Respectfully submitted Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved October 27, 1999. PARK BOARD MINUTES OCTOBER 27, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Robert Brockwell, Wilbur Howard, Judith Mohay Filice, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott (excused late arrival at 8:10), John Pollard MEMBERS ABSENT: Kris Nicholoff(excused) OTHERS PRESENT: John David, National Bicycle League; Debbie & Brian Haught, Dan Lienerth, Heather McKenzie, BMX, Wally Juall, James T. Lyons, Cy� ilf: Lewis Garcia, Bill Vernon, Leonard B. Zimmerman, Alfreda Schmidt, `A Veteran's Issue; David Wiener, Mayor's Office/Memorial Review Board; Douglas N. McGiveron, Edward C. Tarka, Senior Golf Gold Card; Kay Lyons; Roger Fox, Landscape Architects & Planners; R. Eric Reickel, Director; Phil Dorland, Deputy Director; Murdock Jemerson, Leisure Services Manager CALL TObRDER: 7:00 P.M. Letts Community Center, 1220 W. Kalamazoo Street ADDITIONS/DELETIONS FROM AGENDA: Add Fenner Inholding Grand Amendment (extension) and Frances Shoreline Grant Amendment (extension). STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS: John David of the National Bicycle League appeared on behalf of the Parents' Organization who is working to get a BMX track in Gier Park. He is the Field Director and manages 200 BMX sanctioned tracks across the country. The NBL, as a sanctioning body, provides the expertise for running and building BMX tracks. The local Parents' Organization has received some donations for dirt and equipment. They are asking the Park Board to earmark some money for the development of this park. A lease agreement between the Parks and Recreation Department and the Parents' Organization is being developed. At the Director's request Mr. David explained how this general configuration would fit into Gier Park. Discussion followed centering around the merits of an open or closed track, the Board's concern about tree removal and the exact amount of funding being requested. Debbie Haught of the Parents' Organization will provide recommendations as to this being an opened or closed facility, tree removal and budget figures. MINUTES MOTION: Howard moved the Park Board minutes of September 22, 1999, be approved as presented; seconded Brockwell. Motion carried. MOTION: Brockwell moved the other department board minutes be received; seconded by Filice. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes - October 27, 1999 Page 2 MOORES PARK SHUFFLEBOARD COURTS Funding was recommended in the CIP budget (2000-2001) to put fencing around the shuffleboard courts. The Director also recommends that if we have capital improvement residuals in the spring (2000) of$4,000 to $5,000, we recommend it be accomplished then. SENIOR GOLF GOLD CARD - REQUEST OF DOUGLAS MCGIVERON Douglas McGiveron read the letter which had been mailed to the Board regarding senior golf cards. McGiveron is requesting that seniors who will reach 75 in 2000 and those older pay a flat fee for the Gold Golf Card. The current card is $300 plus a flat fee of$1.75 every time 9 holes are played at Groesbeck. Edward Tarka also spoke and he liked it the way it was before when it was a flat fee of$400. He knows the improvements must be paid for. Brockwell asked if they really feel the $1.75 per 9 hole round at Groesbeck is too much and insulting. McGiveron said it is insulting to seniors who have lived through the depression, served in the military, and have been through a lot. He's done a lot of service work in Lansing. They feel it's a matter of dollars and cents and it's "a pain in the neck" for them to pay it and for the starters who take the money. McGiveron noted people who pay the regular rate to golf don't pay a fee. The Director explained the $1.75 fee is built into the individual fee. It is not possible to build a $1.75 fee into the pass because we don't know how many times an individual will golf. McGiveron suggested $100 out of$400 be used. It is expensive. He paid the $325 flat fee and then $231 in surcharges. There are people who purchase passes who do not golf 50 times per year. He thinks this should be an option for persons 75 and older. Pollard asked if there are gold passes at every course or just Groesbeck. There are two types of passes. A Gold pass entitles a person (age 60 and over) to play at all four courses. The Silver pass allows a person (age 60 and over) to play at the 9 hole courses only (Red Cedar, Sycamore and Waverly). The Silver pass holder only pays $.50 fee per 9 holes. Howard commented he is in his late 60's and plays as much as he can. He wants to ensure that if we give a group preference, it be based on something real. We must be spending enough on the older citizens as well as the young people. Things should be done by generations to make it fair. There aren't many young people who can afford to play. Golf is a retirees' game in this area. He would like to see a program that would induce younger people to play also. McGiveron noted those who benefitted by this could serve in a program as mentors to the young people who want to golf. McGiveron suggested a discounted card holder could be required to serve in a mentoring program for young golfers. Leyrer wondered why there isn't a card for youth if they went through a training period. Leyrer has no problem with seniors having a reduced rate—we owe them as they are teachers and mentors. We also need to show our youth that we respect them also and it could be reciprocal. Pollard noted bills for the renovations must be paid and he does not personally believe senior citizens deserve discounts just because they have lived to a certain age. There are many groups Park Board Minutes - October 27, 1999 Page 3 who may desire special consideration. McGovern commented Pollard wasn't in World War II or in Korea. They just want to be respected, but if this gets turned down, it will be all right. Pollard explained they misunderstood him and he felt the age should be lowered so it includes all senior citizens. He is not sure this can be acted on this evening though, because he wants to see the economic impact. Director noted that golf course users must pay for the golf course improvements. If this concept is accepted, then the remaining golfers will take the entire load of the golf course improvements. James requested the golf staff bring figures on what the economic impact would be if such a concept was adopted. James thanked McGovern and Tarka for their presentation. VETERANS' GROUP REQUEST FOR MEMORIAL TO GENERAL LOGAN Wally Juall, Ingham County Board of Commissioners and Veteran, requested a monument 3 x 5 granite monument and a 30' lighted flag to be placed at the entrance to Mt. Hope Cemetery in honor of General John Logan who was the founder of Memorial Day and the other veterans, not just civil war veterans, who are buried at Mt. Hope Ceremony. Bill Vernon of the Lansing Veterans Council and James Lyons of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War also spoke. A history of General John A. Logan and Memorial Day was discussed and a detailed handout was distributed. Flag uses in Lansing Schools to recognize veterans was also discussed. David Wiener from the Mayor's Office noted there was a special account that could be used for this. After much discussion, the veterans' group was requested work with Mr. Reickel and Mr. Wiener proposed wording for the plaque. MOTION: Brockwell moved that the Board support the concept of a memorial to General John Logan and other veterans buried at Mount Hope Cemetery; seconded by Filice. Motion carried. RIVER TRAIL EAST EASEMENT FOR CONSUMERS ENERGY ELECTRIC LINE Due to the River Trail construction along the north side of Kalamazoo Street one power pole was relocated to accommodate the pathway routing. Efforts were made to locate the trail to avoid the pole, but it proved to be too difficult with the widening of the bridge and the restraints Michigan State University had on the pedestrian bridge location. A new pole was located north and west of the existing one thus requiring a new utility easement. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Board recommend approval of this easement; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. FENNER INHOLDING ACQUISITION GRANT AMENDMENT #2 AND FRANCES SHORELINE GRANT AMENDMENT 91 The department requests the Fenner Inholding Grant (TF95-125) be extended to November 30, Park Board Minutes - October 27, 1999 Page 4 1999 to acquire this property with all leaseholders relocated no later than March 31, 2000 and the Frances Shoreline Grant (TF96-102) be extended July 30, 2000 to complete the project with final reimbursement being submitted no later than September 14, 2000. These are both Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund grants. MOTION: Brockwell moved the Board recommend approval of the Fenner Inholding Acquisition Grant Amendment #2 and the Frances Shoreline Grant Amendment #1; seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN Phil Dorland distributed a packet which included Council proceedings relating to the sale of the Civic Center per the Board's request. The Board discussed the lack of facilities for veterans and seniors. Use of the Scott House by the seniors and others was discussed. Dorland explained the Five Year Parks and Recreation Plan is required to be on file with the DNR for state grant eligibility. The DNR Trust Fund grants are currently the only grants available. A recap of the master plan discussion of October 26, 1999, was also distributed and discussed. Some suggestions were received for clarity including adding a Code of Conduct for cleaning up sports fields, more concentration on youth and teen programs, and more support for Adopt-A- Park. Howard was not at the previous master plan meeting but he did note that the Senior Citizens are incorporated in the Community Centers and there is no separate senior program. He feels if we are concerned with the schools and the youth, we also need to be concerned with our seniors. From input he receives from the community, Lansing has gone backwards in their senior programming and this should be noted. Dorland explained that there had been a senior coordinator for the department and separate from that was the Lansing Senior Center. The Center was folded into the Parks and Recreation Department and a position was lost in this combining. When the Senior Activity Coordinator retired in 1992, this position was not funded. Jemerson explained the only position that is missing is the coordinator position. There are two programmers that work with a senior leader who runs the programming from Letts, Gier and Miller Road. Howard noted that administratively when the senior coordinator's position was not filled after it became vacant in 1992, the programming has not kept up. Reickel explained this position was kept on the chart as unfunded for several years trying to get the position funded, but we were unsuccessful. Jemerson explained there was no demand for the position from seniors in this area. The most he hears is from this Board. The Director noted there are many programs in this area and therefore many options for seniors. Howard and Filice are seriously concerned about this situation and would like senior programming enhanced. James suggested the department look regionally at senior programming, consider what the department's contribution should be and look for innovative programs. After the census is done, demographic information can be used to determine programming. Pollard though a statement noting the lack of senior programming should be added. Dorland stated he would add some information on the Board's Park Board Minutes - October 27, 1999 Page 5 concern regarding senior citizen programming. Filice also noted Scott House should be recommended as a welcoming center for future consideration. She also would like after school skating programs connected with scholarships with transportation included in the scholarship funding. Jemerson noted the teens at Foster Center have done a tremendous job with the Haunted House at Foster. It was amazing the tremendous job they did. Pollard thought the youth should get an award of some type. MASTER PLAN POTENTIAL PROJECTS AND POSSIBLY GRANT PROJECTS A list of projects in the $50,000 through $1,000,000+ level was distributed along with a list of which of those project may qualify for possible grants. Dorland noted one of the primary purposes of the master plan is to determine a plan as to what grants sources will be pursued. The projects that may qualify for grant funding were listed according to their probability of receiving grant funding. Dorland noted Reickel's background is extremely helpful in putting together a list of projects that may qualify for grants. Pollard asked about the matching millage funding. Typically it is 25% of the grant. Reickel noted this is a list of potential projects that may qualify, but in any one year only one project would qualify otherwise they would be competing against each other. They are not prioritized for the grant list. These grant projects are also on the CIP. Dorland noted staff takes this information and the comments from park board to develop the Action Plan portion of the plan. This is what will be put on public display November 10. At the November 17 Park Board meeting the public can come to the Park Board and make comments. The most difficult part of this process is to make it clear to the public this is a plan—it is not a funding document. Just because there is a plan in place, it does not mean anything will be funded. Pollard didn't know how many grants could be attained but it could be $3.8 to $5.6 million plus the contribution. He added this up to $4,365 or $10+ million. If a match is required, there is $2.5 that must be come out of millage funding. Before we have even arrived at the year, that millage funding is earmarked. He noted 85% of this is earmarked for the River Trail. Dorland stated he clearly understands Pollard's comments. He did point out this is a planning document—it is not an implementation or budgetary document. If a project is to be forwarded for the grant process, it is required to come back to the Park Board and the City Council before a grant can be pursued. This gives another opportunity for comment as to whether it is a viable project. Reickel noted again that the River Trail is emphasized on the potential grant list because the criteria that we must meet for the grants rate high on water, fishing and natural areas. We will not get five of these over a ten year period let alone get all of them. This is just a component of the overall plan. In the CIP there is a different approach which deals with the local neighborhood parks more than ever before. Pollard noted Council policy states upcoming millage projects must be in the master plan. Howard notes that state funding can designate what is done. Pollard stressed that because we are driven by funding sources, the River Trail is where the millage money is being spent. What happens here, is that the only thing that qualifies is trails, so we end up building trails. Park Board Minutes - October 27, 1999 Page 6 James commented that the River Trail is unique as there are so many different users and so many different ways it is used in so many different parts of the community. It allows us to get close to the river, it allows passive and active use, it links neighborhoods, there are plans to link parks and other parts of the city in a safe way. We didn't have a way to ride to East Lansing all these years, now we will on skates, foot and bikes. This is a capital improvement that we have invested in and it is also something all generations use. BUDGET YEAR FY 2001 Dorland distributed an updated CIP and Designated Fund Project List for recommended funding next fiscal year. The projects that are in the action plan of the master plan have been pulled and placed here. There are more small projects than ever before. These total $1,916,218 and this is $87,561 over the target. The department is comfortable in submitting these projects as is. There were specific projects for the Golf, Zoo, Community Building Furnishing and Equipment, Cemetery, golf surcharge and ballfield development funds/accounts. Reickel noted this list is very much "in" the neighborhoods with basketball court repairs, pavement repairs, sidewalk repairs, playground equipment, etc. James wondered if there is any skatepark or BMX funding here. There is nothing on the list for those items. The department was led to believe the volunteers would raise funds. The Park Board is requested to make a recommendation on these projects. The recommendation goes to the Mayor and onto Council. MOTION: Filice moved the Board adopt the CIP and Designated Fund Project List as presented and it be forwarded to the Mayor; seconded by Lott. (Project List attached) Motion carried. (5-2 Pollard, Howard against) PROGRAMTRIORITY CHANGES AND NEW PROGRAMS Dorland explained New Program Requests are presented to the Mayor and his staff by each department head. The Mayor makes a decision as to which requests to advance in the budgetary process for Council review. The following programs were presented to the Board: Overtime for Special Adado Riverfront Park Event (music festival) estimate $ 6,850 Associate Curator at Potter Park Zoo $ 52,747 Adopt-A-Park (signs & muttmitts) $ 2,545 Forestry $311,895 Conversion of 4 seasonals to full time workers $125,577 Conversion of 1 contract worker to fulltime and one seasonal $ 86,004 Park stump removal by contractor $ 10,000 Contract for wood disposal $ 15,000 PSD increased maintenance $ 9,297 Neighborhood beautification $ 66,017 Youth Development Initiative - America's Promise $ 60,086 Mid-Michigan Youth Football League $ 6,474 YWCA/LP&R Girls Basketball Program $ 5,347 Park Board Minutes - October 27, 1999 Page 7 Turner Dodge House Summer History Camp $ 726 Fenner Nature Center Summer Camp 0 Wexford Comm. School/LP&R Friday Fun Club $ 4,058 C.I.RC.L.E.S. (Communities Involved in Recreation and Continued Leisure Services $ 31,448 LP&R Junior Recreators $ 12,033 MOTION: Lott moved the Board refer the New Programs Requests and Program/Priority Changes to the Mayor and recommend them for consideration; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned 10.-20 P.M. Respectfully submitted �/"�� � L,.�-,� 1�(�Lc Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary No quorum 11/17/99 meeting. Approved 12/15/99. PARKS S RECREATION DEPARTMENT "V $ +( +-L; CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS/DESIGNATED ACCOUNT/OTHER FUND PROJECTS FY 2001 7H0- /06/J0101 POTTER BLDG. GENERAL PARK ZOO Furnish 3706wFunds Other =CA11ON [7FUND FUND Improvml Equip.PROJECTTYPE PROJECT DESCRIPTION Park Mille a Dav Fund Subsid Fund CDBG Fund SOURCE BASKETBALL COURT REPAIR i WALDO basketball court needs aprons 2•400 BASKETBALL COURT REPAIR WALSH basketball courts need replacement 23.000 BASKETBALL COURT REPAIR WESTSIDE basketball goal footing raised-REPLACE POLES 3.000 BASKETBALL COURT REPAIR WILSON basketball court needs aprons and regrade around court 3,OD0 Sub-Total 77,915 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 BUILDING MAINTENANCE ATHLETIC FIELDS im lement a preventative maint.plan for ballrield lighting 30,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE FENNER re lace carpeting In library 5,050 BUILDING MAINTENANCE FOSTER upgrade electrical 15,000 build.maini.will verify at BUILDING MAINTENANCE HUNTER pool-upgrade fillers install sand filter 53,300 BUILDING MAINTENANCE HUNTER I-re lacetoilel partitionsfor ADAcompliance 18,0O0 BUILDING MAINTENANCE HUNTER !-new liner 50,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE MOORES pool-replace ceramic tiles per Dept.of Public Health 28,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE MOORES 1{e lace hot water storage tank 19,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE OAK PARK GARAGE OFFICE garage vehicle exhaust system 4D,DO0 BUILDING MAINTENANCE SCOTT CENTER renovations-architectural exterior on and structural r master Ian 225,000 BUILDING MAINTENANCE SYCAMORE PARK renovate reaVooms 20.000 build.maint will verify al Sub-Total 603,350 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 CONCRETE REPAIRS CAVANAUGH concrete-sldawalk repairs needed(City d school) 5,000 CONCRETE REPAIRS COMSTOCK concrete-replace concrete steps and park sidewalks(public service) 7.600 CONCRETE REPAIRS REUTTER concrete-sidewalk repairs needed 28,800 r+ r+ CONCRETE REPAIRS ST.JOSEPH concrete-replace concrete pad around 3 aides of reatroom bldg. 3,500 N CONCRETE REPAIRS WOODCREEK concrete-need paved path to tennis courts. Area Is low and wet 2,500 n Sub-Total 47 400 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ig � CONSULTANT FEES NOT PROJECT SPECIFIC co fDnsullantiees' 60,000 p CONSULTANT FEES ADADO/RIVERFRONT/TRAIL Research and design route of River Trail to Hawk Island County Park througi 12.500 12,St>D Ingham C r+ CONSULTANT FEES ADADO/RIVERFRT/TRAIL developmaster plan In con'uction with the Music Fast LEPFA 10,000 1 CONSULTANT FEES QUENTIN developmaster plan with neighborhood organization 10.000 CONSULTANT FEES OAK PARK FIELD OFFICE develop site plan 10.000 O Sub-Total 102,500 0 0 0 0 0 0 12,500 0 rt LANSING SCHOOL DISTRICT EVERETT school contribution to balKeld lighting O 40,000 40,000 L Set t7 Sub-Total 40,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 40,000 u ri MAINTENANCE COMPLEX OAK PARK FIELD OFFICE after site plan is complete-rebuild storage sheds and pave storage yard. 340.000 nj Sub-Total 340,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 v r PARK 2500 E.MT.HOPE(FENNER) demolition of existing buildings 50,000 � PARK ADADO/RIVERFRT/TRAIL RiverTrail-SSS Dye.construct behind 3 repair old(Spring to 496 as needed 65.000 195,000 DNR Grant PARK ADADO/RfVERFRT/TRAIL lighting through BWL PARK BURCHARD-WEST replace entire damaged walkways.benches,etc.(trip hazards 0 BWL 15,000 b PARK _ CHERRY HILL launch 3 dock redesign and renovation Feb.2000 Fisheries Grant r uest 30.000 20.000 DNR Grant W PARK DURANT ark redevelo ment master Ian com letion.sidewalk,archway re air,etc. 125 000 T ti PARK F ___-_-- FENNER install composting toile! 12,000 - Sub-Total 297 000 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 215,000 i 0 to O PARK MILLAGE OPERATIONS PROGRAMS kids camps-7 35,653 ----- _. __ Sub-Total 35,653 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; 0 a r• rr r+ 101271199910:10:12 AM PkPlanFY2000.WK4 1 ID In PARKS S RECREATION DEPARTMENT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS/DESIGNATED ACCOUNT/OTHER FUND PROJECTS FY 2001(711100.6130/01) GULFr. COMM FUND POTTER ! BLDG. 9fiole GENERAL PARK ZOO li Furnish 3 Other BallBeld Player FUND Improvmt ', Equip. 1 Funds PROJECT TYPE PARK LOCATION PROJECT DESCRIPTION Park Mllla a Dev Fund Surchar a SubsidyFund CDBG Fund Other Funds SOURCE PARK PAVING ADADO/RNERFRT/TRAIL as hall-RiverTrail paving and decking repairs 130,000 LW Dev. PARK PAVING ADADOI RIVERFRT/TRAIL asphalt-line and sign the Vail in accordance with current standards 3.000 PARK PAVING ADADOI RNERFRT/TRAIL asphalt-repave necessary sections on an annual basis 50,0DO PARK PAVING BURCHARD-EAST asphalt-resurface(eliminate standing water by silos 6 SW corner(add CB?)) 7,DOO PARK PAVING COOLEY asphalt-add handicapped parking spaces 500 PARK PAVING GRAND RIVER asphalt-Install deceleration lane into park road along Lansing Rd. 4.000 PARK PAVING INGHAM asphalt-pave parking lot,sign,stripe etc. 16.500 PARK PAVING MILLER RD.C.C. asphalt-parking lot Improvements with ADA access 13.400 PARK PAVING SCOTT WOODS aaphall-redo parking lot.need parking barricades E signage 10,800 j PARK PAVING WESTSIDE asphalt-check paving status and install signage for handicapped 200 T Sub-Total 235,400 0 0 0 0, 0 0 0 0 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT ATTWOOD(SOUTH) replace playground equipment in compliance with ASTM&CPSC guidelines 35.000 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT HOLLY replace playground equipment In compliance with ASTM 6 CPSC guidelines 35,000 ! PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT CHERRY HILL replace playground equipment in compliance with ASTM d CPSC guidelines 35,000 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT MULTIPLE SITES replacement of auxiliary items as removed 30,000 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT MULTIPLE SITES Install of wear pads at multiple sites 10,0D0 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT FENNER install two permanent handicapped picnic tables 2,000 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT MULTIPLE SITES replace bleacher units to meet current codes 17,5W Sub-Total 164,500 0 0 01 0 0 0 0 0 REPAIR 8 MAINTENANCE-CITY WIDE VARIOUS SITES dock,walk,rail;courtbackstop;fence replace;park barricade;eros.cont.;etc. 20.700 ! REPAIR 3 MAINTENANCE-CITY WIDE MOORES fence around shuffle board courts 4.800 REPAIR 8 MAINTENANCE-CITY WIDE TURNER-DODGE remove overlook and install drainage to control erosion 900 REPAIR b MAINTENANCE-CITY WIDE WOODCREEK evaluate 8 implement drainage plans to drain water off site 8,500 _- Sub-Total 34,9001 0 0 0 _ 0 0 0 0 0 Total 1,916,218 0 0 0 0 0 0 267.500 0 Target 31784,056 X 2.5% 1,828,657 OTHER FUNDS Difference (87,561 CDBG BANCROFT replace playground equipment in compliance with ASTM 3 CPSC guidelines 35.000 Sub-Total 0 0 0 0 0 35,000 0 01 0 CEMETERY FUND-GF SUBSIDY CEMETERY OFFICE concretetedesign parking E walks to building for ADA 25.000 CEMETERY FUND-GF SUBSIDY EVERGREEN replace gate 18,000 CEMETERY FUND-GF SUBSIDY MT.HOPE entry archway needs to be repaired 5.000 Sub-Total 0 0 0 48,000 0 0 0 0 0 i GOLF FUND-GF SUBSIDY GROESBECK GC asphalt-cart path repairs 10,000 GOLF FUND-GF SUBSIDY SYCAMORE replace maintenance barn 22.000 GOLF FUND-GF SUBSIDY WAVERLY starter house Improvements food service 6 kitchen area renovations 16.000 _ Sub-Total 0 0 0 48,000 01 01 _ 0; 0 0 PPZ-GF SIBSIDY POTTER PARK ZOO asphalt-restoration of pathways.roads,parking areas,paving S striping 20,000 1 Sub-Total 0 0 0 20.000 0 0 0• 0 i I BUILDING USE FEE-DESIGNATED GIER COMM.CTR. (20)plastic folding tables(5180 ea.) ! T 3.600. BUILDING USE FEE-DESIGNATED FENNER (2)plastic folding tables($180 ea.) 360i__ BUILDING USE FEE-DESIGNATED COMMUNITY CENTERS floor buffer -.-_ — 1 0 BUILDING USE FEE-DESIGNATED COMMUNITY CENTERS video projector ! r 1,200 10/271199910:10:19 AM PkP IanFY2000.W K4 2 PARKS IL RECREATION DEPARTMENT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS/DESIGNATED ACCOUNTIOTHER FUND PROJECTS FY 2001 711100-6130101 POTTER BLDG. ole GENERAL PARK ZO0 Furnish d Other Balifleld :7FND yer FUND Improvmt Equip. Funds =PROJECTTYPE PARK LOCATION PROJECT DESCRIPTION Park Mllla Dev Fund ar Subsl Fund CDBG Fund Other Funds SOURCE Sub-Total 0 0 01 0 0 01 6,660 01 0 GOLF-9 HOLE SURCHARGE-DESIGNATEE RED CEDAR parking lot improvements 013'�WO GOLF-9 HOLE SURCHARGE-DESIGNATE SYCAMORE bridge Improvements to#3 and 97 GOLF-9 HOLE SURCHARGE-DESIGNATE SYCAMORE capparkinglot GOLF-9 HOLE SURCHARGE-DESIGNATE WAVERLY lance replacement Sub-Total 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ZOO FEE-DESIGNATED-CAPITAL POTTER PARK ZOO animal care facility 30,D00 220,000 itaryI ZOO FEE-DESIGNATED-REPAIR&MAINT.POTTER PARK ZOO fencing repair 50,000 ZOO FEE-DESIGNATED-REPAIR&MAINT.POTTER PARK ZOO exhlbft shotcrete repairs 10,000 ZOO FEE-DESIGNATED4tEPAIR&MAINT.POTTER PARK ZOO cavy shed repairs 3.000 Z00 FEE-DESIGNATED-REPAIR 6 MAJNT.1 POTTER PARK ZOO unscheduled repairs 9,0D0 Sub-Total 0 0 0 0 102,000 0 0 220,000 0 PLAYER FEE-DESIGNATED GIER 1 MARSHALL/RANNEY netting on backstops(Gler,Marshall,Ranney); padding on poles(Raney y) 16,970 (Noyols d idder to ver' scat) Sub-Total 01 16,970 01 0 0 ID/27/199910:10:21 AM PkPIanFY2000.WK4 3 PARK BOARD MINUTES December 15, 1999 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Robert Brockwell, Wilbur Howard, Judith Mohay Filice, Ron Lott, Kris Nicholoff, John Pollard MEMBERS ABSENT: Ruth Leyrer (unexcused) - OTHERS PRESENT: R. Eric Reickel, Director; Tanya Moore, Landscape ArchitL-6t CALL TO ORDER: 7:10 P.M., Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster m MINUTES ry MOTION: Brockwell moved the Park Board minutes of October 27, 1999, be approved as presented and the other department board minutes be placed on file; seconded Filice. Motion carried. Filice noted the Park Board minutes should be sent to the various department boards. Filice wondered why a special project to honor educators was not supported by the Friends of Turner- Dodge. Pollard commented on Zoological Society minutes where Brady noted that parking and admission revenues are down from 1998 to 1999 and also that the L & L Zoo Days has a negative impact on the zoo. Also it was noted under strategic planning that Eaton and Ingham counties are not interested in any tri-county planning regarding Potter Park Zoo. Reickel noted that L & L Days is one of the best marketing tools. This event is held Tuesday and Wednesday after the July 4"' week which is one of our slowest weeks. The money does not go to the Society; it goes to the department. James noted the Wonderland of Lights is absolutely wonderful. SENIOR GOLF GOLD CARD - REQUEST OF DOUGLAS MCGIVERON Douglas McGiveron had discussed senior golf cards at the October meeting and requested that seniors who reach 75 in 2000 and those older pay a flat fee for the Gold Golf Card. The current card is $300 plus a flat fee of$1.75 every time 9 holes are played at Groesbeck. The Board received an economic impact report on the effect of such a change and opted to leave the fee schedule as it is. (Kris Nicholoff arrived.) DISPOSAL OF GENESEE PARCEL Brockwell explained the neighborhood had asked this site be used for additional greenspace. This was after Genesee Center was torn down and until the neighborhood could come up with a suitable use. Brockwell built the planter there, does the maintenance, mows the grass and snowblows the sidewalk. He picks up needles, wine bottles, etc. Normally there is nothing kids leave. The Genesee Neighborhood Association (GNA) decided that this would be a good parcel for housing. The GNA chose to have the playground equipment at the Black Child and Family Institute. It is not dedicated park land. The park is used as a cut through for access to a drug house. Also, the City now has ownership of the additional space at Ferris Park. Park Board Minutes - December 15, 1999 Page 2 MOTION: Brockwell moved the Genesee Parcel be disposed of, seconded by Nicholoff. Filice clarified that if this is not a dedicated park then it does not need a vote of the people prior to sale. James explained the neighborhood had asked for the unused parcel to be used for a park but has since realized it is being used as a conduit to the drug house. Pollard objected to the parcel being sold without a vote even if it is not dedicated park land. This circumvents the spirit of the park land disposal policy. Filice agreed with Pollard's point on the disposal of park land. Brockwell commented that this is truly a neighborhood park. Frances and Grand River Parks are community parks. People from other areas do not come to the Genesee area to play at this site. The neighborhood wanted it to be a park but the activity at the park is the undesirable activity. The BCFI has become a partner with the neighborhood. Howard noted in New York City they use community gardens. James spent 8 years as the Lansing Neighborhood Council President. Neighborhoods get very frustrated because there can be a small piece of land no one wants that is neglected. The neighborhood has caused it to be a park. We cannot hamstring neighborhood desires. Filice feels the size of a park is immaterial and neighborhoods can wait a brief time while an issue is explored. Tanya Moore, Landscape Architect, noted the list of parkland has not been updated since 1981 and the department is in the process of doing that. Also those who work in Parks and Recreation have the same feelings as the park board members, but we deal with the park issues on a day-to- day basis. It is not philosophy—it is reality. We see the trash and the lack of use. The staff does know the parks. Also, the park land has not decreased over the last five years, but has increased. We are sensitive to not disposing of greenspace but rather in disposing of nonproductive parcels. Moore deals with the Adopt-A-Park Program and there are associations and individuals who care a lot about those parks. What seems to happen with garden areas is there is a group or person who is interested for a couple of years, and then it is neglected. After discussion the motion was withdrawn. MOTION: Brockwell moved to table the item; seconded by Nicholoff. Motion carried. Reickel will come back with clarification of how Genesee became a park site. 427-429 DORRANCE PLACE - DONATION OF PROPERTY David Penix has offered to donate property he owns that is located adjacent to our Oak Park maintenance facility. The department is encouraging the acceptance of this donation. MOTION: Brockwell moved to recommend acceptance of this property as dedicated park land and that it be used as an integral part in the expansion of the Oak Park Field Office; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. RIVER TRAIL TO TECUMSEH PARK-WITHDRAW GRANT REQUEST A 1999 grant application was submitted to acquire a railroad right of way to expand the river trail Park Board Minutes - December 15, 1999 Page 3 north to Tecumseh Park. The property in question is being transferred between two railroads. If the City were awarded this grant, we would be unable to complete the acquisition within the required time period. It would be in the best interest of the City to withdraw the application until the ownership of this right-of-way is determined. MOTION: Filice moved to the Board supports the Department's withdrawal of this grant application; seconded by Brockwell. Motion carried. PARK MASTER PLAN Filice wondered why we are recommending Fairview Park be turned over to hansing Township THE INGIIAM COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSION as it is a spectacular park and the Park Board had a great deal to do with it becoming this premier park. Pointed discussion followed. MOTION: Filice moved that Fairview Park be removed from the Five Year Master Plan; seconded by Pollard. Motion carried. (Yes-James, Filice, Pollard; No-Brockwell, Nicholoff; Abstain-Howard) Filice also noted the language used in reference to the school district's deteriorating properties is negative and it could be kinder while remaining factual. Pollard observed there is too much money being spent on the River Trail from the millage. In Project PLAY the distribution of projects seems skewed. He didn't see cost information on the skatepark. He also wants a concrete slab for roller hockey to keep the kids from playing roller hockey on the tennis courts. Moore noted the CIP list is from the master project list which could be grant eligible. It doesn't mean other projects will not be done. Pollard again observed spending our money primarily on grant eligible projects is not what the citizens want. We cannot jeopardize the millage. (Ron Lott arrived.) Nicholoff did mention that unlike natural river frontage, the tollgate drain project at Fairview Park has no supervision and there is some liability. The Director will inquire as to our liability at Fairview Park. James noted that this is a plan and a living document. Just because it is or isn't in the plan, does not mean it will or will not happen. It is a general guideline and it will qualify us for grants with the State of Michigan. MOTION: Brockwell moved the corrected plan be forwarded to the Mayor; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. DIRECTOR'S REPORT At the January Park Board meeting the proposed Ranney Park Conceptual Master Plan will be presented by Robert Ford of Landscape Architects and Planners. Stairs recommendation for the Park Board Minutes - December 15, 1999 Page 4 location of the skateboard parks will be presented. Also, Robert Moore, of Ingham County Parks will be present to discuss the Hawk Island project. Budget will also be presented in January. The President of Turner-Dodge, Merlyn Allen, passed away. Ed Carpenter is now the president. The holiday events have been exceptional at Turner-Dodge. Directional signs will be placed on 496 and 127 for Potter Park Zoo by MDOT. Wonderland of Lights is also terrific this year. Information had been mailed on Wonderland of Lights, Turner-Dodge Family Christmas, and Working Session notes of 10/26 & 10/27 on Master Plan. Also the River Trail Map and Community Activities Guide were available. REMARKS BY BOARD MEMBERS James asked for clarification as to where St. Joe Park ends, what is the Parks and Recreation Department's relationship with the railroad and is this City of Lansing or Township property. The view along Clare Street is terrible. Adjourned 8AO P.M. Respectfully submitted C w �t :' -� << C' Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved 1/19/2000