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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002 Park Board Minutes PARK BOARD MINUTES January 16,2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Judith Mohay Filice, Wilbur Howard, Ron Lott (late excused), Melvin McWilliams, Claude Ramey MEMBERS ABSENT: Ruth Leyrer (unexcused), Monica Terrell (excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Brian Smith, Citizens for Better Lansing; Tom Powers, North Lansing Community Association (NLCA); Robert Johnson, Chief of Staff of Mayor's Office; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Lansing Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:03 P.M. at Scott Center ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA -None STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS -None PARK BOARD MINUTES MOTION: Filice moved the Park Board Minutes ofDecember 19,2001 be approved as amended to correct the comment on the first page to read Beverly Miller rather than Marsh; seconded Ramey. Motion carried. Other board minutes were received and placed on file. COMFORT STATION (tabled until 2/20/02) Tom Powers of the North Lansing Community Association spoke to the Board regarding the letter he had received from Murdock Jemerson regarding the situation. Powers asked the Board to act this evening. The Board declined. Jemerson noted he would be contacting representatives of the group to meet and discuss their progress. The lease was under the Parks and Recreation Department for the last term and that will be changing. Jemerson explained that if the facility is sold, there will be a reverter clause in the deed allowing for public access or the building will come back to the City of Lansing. BASE BUDGET FY 02-03 The Director had mailed a package to the Board including his Executive Summary and a comparison summary ofthe major expense and revenue accounts to provide the Board with an overview complete with comparison charts. This was reviewed at the meeting.Ron Lott arrived during this review. One item of interest was the general fund subsidy for the cemetery fund had decreased due to the revenues from the opening of Section P at Evergreen. Discussion followed. Filice asked for an update on the greenhouse at Mount Hope and Aurelius. MOTION: McWilliams moved to support the base budget for FY 02-03 as presented; seconded by Howard. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes - January 1b, 2002 Page 2 UPDATES Sycamore Golf Course-Jemerson explained how the First Tee Program is looking at Sycamore Golf Course. The group will be putting in$50,000 into the construction ofthe first tee facility. Landscape Architects and Planners have been working to ensure the river trail program and the First Tee program work together. The river trail options were the same as previously presented. Filice was concerned about the flood plain issues and asked about the phasing of the project. Jemerson explained the Ingham County Drain Commission would be required to approve any plans in this area. This may be a phased project and may require a change in our capital improvement program to take advantage of the funding First Tee is offering. Battle Creek is constructing a First Tee facility this year. Sycamore Restroom is completed.We are currently using the storage portion of this building to paint picnic tables. Skateboard Park-A meeting is being held next week at Foster Center to give the general public an update and also a list of the proposed rules will be discussed. The amenities bids have come in and additional dollars will be needed. We are looking at millage residuals. The complete donation has not been received from LASBRF at this time. LASBRF is being credited with the Ingham County and East Lansing donations as they did make the original contacts. Ingham County has pledged $50,000 and they have given$10,000. Their next installment is $20,000. The final $20,000 is not guaranteed as it has to go through their budget process. The East Lansing contribution of$40,000 is$20,000 this year and$20,000 next year. The first$20,000 should be arriving shortly,but the final $20,000 will go through their budget process. So as far as LASBRF and actual dollars, we have is $10,000 as oftoday,but we are expecting to receive another$20,000 within the week. The LASBRF commitment is for $200,000. James noted there are a number of requests for partnerships and some work and some do not. Groups come with proposals but it should be tracked as to what people actually follow through on. Filice commented on the longevity of the commitments. Olympic Torch Run- Jemerson had pictures of the event. One of the runners was an employee of Lansing Parks and Recreation. This event drew many more people than was expected. Mary Winegar coordinated this event and deserves the praise for the success of this smooth running event in the Lansing area. The committee and sponsors were honored at Council. The Power of Partnerships - A brochure regarding some of Lansing's partnerships was also mailed to the Board. CORRESPONDENCE Ron Lott distributed a letter to fellow Boardmembers regarding the last Board meeting noting he believes all current Park Board members have the best interests of Lansing citizens and the Lansing park system in mind and also encouraging the Board to treat each other with respect and civility. ADJOURN. Respectfully submitted: Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Minutes approved February 20, 2002. PARK BOARD MINUTES February 20,2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Judith Mohay Filice,Wilbur Howard,Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott(late excused), Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Mary James and Melvin McWilliams (excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Joyce Hook,Bev Marsh, Gordon Marsh,Beverly Miller, Sherry Shaw, North Lansing Community Association (NLCA); Mark Braman, Luke Langkamp, Bike Riders; Todd Horgett, Bryan Maltby, Nathan Roberson,Mike Souders, David Vandegriff, BMX Riders; Brian Smith, Citizens for Better Lansing; Christine Timmon, Jewels of Knowledge; James Brazier, City Pulse;.Gary Andrews,Lansing Area Flying Aces;Jerry Heathcote;Amy Moore,Ingham County;Robert Johnson,Chief of Staff of Mayor's Office;Murdock Jemerson,Director of Lansing Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:03 P.M. at Scott Center, 125 W. Main St. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA -Addition-Filice had received a request that a no smoking policy be adopted at Ranney Skate Park and asked that the Board consider it at the next meeting. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Organization, spoke noting that a citizen used the fenced in shuffleboard courts at Moores Park as a dog park. Gary Andrews,President of the Lansing Area Flying Aces,submitted a letter for the Board's consideration and support proposing utilization and long-range development of a Lansing Model Aerodrome at the Hope Soccer Complex. Andrews also requested a confirmation that they could continuing use of Elm Park to enjoy their sport until a permanent location is developed. Andrews suggested joint use with certain understandings. He also noted their Lansing Model Aviation Day is at Elm Park on Saturday, August 3. The proposal was received for staff evaluation. Public commented the sign is missing at McKinch Park and the park is being vandalized. PARK BOARD MINUTES Filice commented she was concerned over the commentary in the minutes from Ron Lott's letter. ("Ron Lott distributed a letter to fellow Boardmembers regarding the last Board meeting noting he believes all current Park Board members have the best interests of Lansing citizens and the Lansing park system in mind and also encouraging the Board to treat each other with respect and civility.") She finds that there are occasions when park land and the disposition of park land can create feelings of extreme anxiety among board members. She is reluctant to see the sale or reallocation of any park land and at times responds passionately and with deep emotion. She will not apologize for that but notes that there have been occasions in the past 10 years where it has been extremely important to be very emphatic about how she feels about losing, selling,renting, declaring park land not park land. She will continue to be as strong and particular about her advocacy for the stewardship of park land as she can possibly be. Sometimes vehemence comes across as being contrary. She also likes her remarks being recorded in the minutes and an adequate job is not being done in recording the minutes. MOTION: Filice moved the Park Board minutes of January 16, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. Other Board Minutes were received and placed on file. Park Board Minutes- February 2u,.Z002 2 COMFORT STATION,313 E. GRAND RIVER This item had been tabled to allow the North Lansing Community Association to meet to resolve their disputes. The Administration also met with Tom Powers of the NLCA as well as Thelma Osteen's daughters,Sherry Shaw and B everly Marsh. While some changes are being made in NLCA's bylaws,there is still not unification of this group. Jemerson noted he had changed the department's recommendation and is asking for the Board's support.The department recommends moving forward with the 285 review which would allow the sale of the Comfort Station with the first groups being considered being private,non-profit groups with the deed having caveats of community access and maintaining the historical facade of the facility. The department is not recommending that NLCA be offered the first right of refusal for this building due to the ongoing dissension within the group. Robert Johnson of the Mayor's Office spoke explaining that after the meeting with the group, he had reservations.NLCA questioned why the City would like deed restrictions preserving community use for the overall community. The purpose of selling this building for$1.00 is to allow for community use. Also, if the building was mortgaged for repairs or any other purpose,the City would want to be notified due to the reverter clause. The City wants the building available for community use but must keep an eye toward future financial obligations for the City. Filice commented that this property has been in City possession for a number of years. Now is the time to say it is park land, designated for community use. Jemerson noted this came to the Park Board because the lease has expired. This Comfort Street Station has been listed on the Assessor's sheet as under Parks and Recreation jurisdiction but it has never been programmed or budgeted in Parks and Recreation. The department and the administration are saying this building does not belong under the jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Department. Due to their internal conflicts, the NLCA is not seen as suitable to have the first right of refusal. Jemerson is recommending that the 285 review for sale of the property proceed with the facility being offered to a non- profit and that the community use would be part of the deed. Ramey noted the building should be used by a non-profit group. Leyrer agrees with Ramey but would like it to stay within the Parks and Recreation jurisdiction. If tenants are not following the lease requirements, the property should come back to the department. Terrell noted she is concerned that the NLCA is not united. Every building that has a community purpose does not need to be under the Parks and Recreation Department. However, community access to the building must be assured regardless of membership in the NLCA. As a volunteer in the Lansing community,she feels a well-run,cohesive community organization will be able to provide more community access to this sort of building than the City of Lansing. Current resources are stretched in terms of staff, supplies,utilities and maintenance. The community group who does end up with this facility should be able to concretely prove their ability to manage the facility and prove the availability of the facility to the community. She supports the building being relinquished under strict control. Jemerson again reminded the Board that what has officially come from Planning is a request for a 285 review to proceed with the sale of the property with community access guaranteed while giving private,non- profit groups first consideration. There are other facilities with community access that have ties to the City but are not Parks and Recreation facilities such as the North Precinct and the Network Center. The NLCA can meet in Parks and Recreation facilities also. If the group needs a place to meet, there are existing centers where the group can meet. Gary Andrews spoke providing"historical perspective"to the Board. He noted he was the driving force behind organizing this area. NLCA was organized for the neighborhood residents to deal with neighborhood and community issues. The NLCA was organized as a nonprofit group in the 70's. This group laid the ground work for all of the development that has taken place in North Lansing and created the entire historic district development. People of the NLCA are the old residents of the community. They may have always Park Board Minutes-February 2t,,,Z002 3 had internal squabbles and probably always will but that is in the nature of a community organization. Andrews noted the requirement of a 285 review is ridiculous and the lease should be renewed. Beverly Marsh spoke mentioning she and Sherry Shaw are Thelma Osteen's daughters. They have been involved with NLCA for several years. Marsh agrees the bylaws need to be revised for NLCA, but the NLCA should be able to continue to lease this space. While it may have been Osteen's dream to own this building,it is not feasible at this time. She would like it to remain under Park and Recreation's jurisdiction with NLCA continuing to lease. But if need be, she will purchase the building personally. MOTION: Filice moved the Board recommend the lease of the Comfort Station to NLCA be renewed for one year with the intention the department seek to facilitate other interested neighborhood groups such as the Old Town Main Street group with encouragement that use is shared with it remaining under Parks and Recreation's jurisdiction. After comment by Leyrer,Filice added that within six months the NLCA should have a mission statement and a calendar of events and activities. Seconded by Leyrer. Terrell would rather see mediation or steps being taken to alleviate the dissension prior to lease renewal. If the lease is renewed,things will proceed as they have been, and this is not acceptable. She would rather give the group something to work for by having to come back to the Board to show progress. She does not feel this must be under the jurisdiction of Parks and Recreation as long as there is community access. Motion failed.2-2 (Yes -Filice,Leyrer;No-Ramey, Terrell;Howard abstained) MOTION: Leyrer moved the NLCA's present lease be extended until June 1, 2002, with this matter being reviewed at that time; seconded by Filice. Terrell wondered where the 285 review would fall within this motion. After discussion Leyrer withdrew her motion. MOTION: Leyrer moved the Board recommends continuing with the Act 285 Review and to also allow the North Lansing Community Association to continue the lease until the review is completed. Discussion followed on who would have access to the building. Leyrer rescinded her motion. MOTION: Terrell moved the Board recommend that(a)the Act 285 Review proceed as advised by the Director and(b)the lease not be extended but a use permit be granted to the North Lansing Community Association for a three month period at the end of which time this would be evaluated. Seconded by Ramey. Terrell explained she sees no use of the building or extremely limited use. This gives time to allow the community members time to come together to workout their difficulties. Jemerson explained a three-month use permit will probably be able to be worked out but again,the lease is up and the City will take possession of the facility. Leyrer is confused at the 285 Review process. She understands other non-profits will be looked at to use the building but she doesn't like the language of"sell". Jemerson explained that the 285 Review for the Comfort Station would allow the sale of the Comfort Station with the first groups being considered being private,non-profit groups. Motion carried. 3-2 (Yes-Howard,Ramey,Terrell;No-Filice,Leyrer) Park Board Minutes -February 2v,2002 4 SKATE PARK RULES Staffhas met with the community and also received input from Ingham County and the City of East Lansing. A rough draft had been reviewed by the Law Department and staff is currently reworking the rules into positive language. The draft was reviewed. SKATE PARK TRANSFER Jemerson explained the amenities package totaled $462,311. We have a total of $341,718 available including the donations from East Lansing and Ingham County. This is a shortfall of$120,593. The amenities package includes the enlargement of the parking lot, a wrought iron fence, tennis courts, infrastructure for the lighting,landscaping, sidewalks around the facility and the entrance plaza Leyrer asked if some of the things were donated by private industry. Jemerson explained as of this date, the only donations the City has been notified of are the donations from the City of East Lansing($20,000) and Ingham County($10,000 with a$20,000 payment to come shortly). This$50,000 will be attributed to LASBRF. Leyrer remembered that there would be donations for landscaping, cement and many other things. She wondered if any of this had come to pass. Jemerson had spoken with the contractor for the skatebowl,Tim Payne of Team Pain,Inc.,regarding this. Payne related some plywood had been received. Payne understands that in order for the City of Lansing to count the plywood as a donation, a value must be assigned to the plywood and the amount subtracted from the amount of Team Pain's contract. Payne is working on the figure for the plywood. Howard noted a citizen group had come to the Board many times and pledged they would raise money,but the funds have not been received by the department. Ramey noted it was $200,000. Discussion followed on requesting the funds that had been raised. Howard commented that the Park Board made a commitment and will make the best effort to complete the skatepark. If the money has been raised by the group,it can be requested. However,the City must pay for the project. Terrell feels project must be supported with the funding provided but the fund-raising group must be held accountable for the funds they have raised. Ramey asked if there was an organization behind this skate park. Jemerson explained the Lansing Area Skate,Bike and Recreation Foundation(LASBRF)is the fund-raising group. Communications received from LASBRF regarding the Ingham County and City of East Lansing donations were discussed. LASBRF had written a letter asking that the donations from the Ingham County and the City of East Lansing be attributed to the concrete portion that Tim Payne is doing. The City is directing the funds towards Tim Payne's final payments. This is just an internal redirecting of dollars. The letter also noted LASBRF was successful in fundraising and securing in kind contributions during the construction phase of the skatepark this past fall.We have had good weather and approximately 85 percent of Team Pain's portion is completed. The remainder will be completed this spring. We cannot open at that point because Team Pain is only responsible for the concrete skatepark. Outside of the concrete,there is unsafe re-rod sticking out to support the sidewalks around the park. The park cannot open until it is finished. The funds are slated to come from the donations received and residuals from other projects. Howard noted that sometimes community groups working with the City work out and sometimes it does not work out. This proposal is to transfer funds from one internal pot of money to another to insure that this project is completed for the citizens of Lansing. MOTION: Leyrer moved that the Board support the transfer of the funds to allow the skatepark to be completed;Terrell seconded the motion. The funds were from residual park millage funds and donations of East Lansing and Ingham County. Leyrer commented that when youth are involved in building a project they appreciate it more and hopefully will use it with respect. Also,LASBRF should be contacted to see if they will be contributing to some of the items. Filice noted one way to encourage maintenance is to insist LASBRF present to the Board how they are raising the funds they have promised to raise to offset the costs. Park Board Minutes -February 2t,,2002 5 Motion carried. Brian Smith spoke as recording secretary of LASBRF explaining LASBRF is waiting for a meeting to determine the correct and proper protocol for routing contributions to the City that will meet the requirements of the IRS,LASBRF's bylaws and the contributors. Jemerson also noted this transfer will complete the park but it will not have lighting. Lighting is a$61,000 project. Hopefully, LASBRF will continue to get actual donations so the lighting can be in place. The ordinance notes that parks close at 10:00 P.M..unless otherwise posted and until there is lighting this park will close at sunset. Nathan Roberson, a bicycle rider, community businessman and resident of Lansing, spoke to the Board regarding Ranney Park. Robertson questioned scooters and bicycles being excluded as these groups use identical facilities. There were issues raised about the chipping of the concrete but there is equipment to solve this problem such as plastic covers for the wheel ends.Robertson explained many concrete parks have open policies where bicycle riders, skateboarders, scooter users all enjoy the same facility with rules on hours. Discussion followed regarding the BMX track at Crier Park. BMX is a dirt bike racing sport.Extreme sport bicycles are for use of wood or concrete and for performing stunts. While there is access,it is not the type of riding the attendees are interested in.Roberson explained he participates in the same sport that scooters, in-liners and stunt bikers do. This is closer to the same sport than what is done with BMX racing. Howard related the efforts to expand the outreach for different kinds of activity for young people over the past few years. Filice explained this bicycle group wants shared use of the Ramey facility not a different park. Filice noted the Board wants assurance this expensive park will not be damaged by the bikers' equipment. Also that there are compatible cultures with a schedule of compatible times so each group would have equal use of the site. Todd Horgett is 24 years old and a Lansing resident and has been skating and bicycling aggressively for 12 years. The plastic or fiberglass pegs will prevent further wear and tear on the concrete. Skateboards have steel on them. In his experience the skateboards actually cause more damage. Either one will cause damage to the concrete. LASBRF has not given their donation so the money involved is public money. If the majority of the money is from the public,it should be open to the public. The State News published many articles and it was noted as a skate-bike park. Howard noted the bikers have done a decent job of explaining what they do and they group has been persuasive. This is a decision that rests with the administration. The biking group was not aware bikes would be denied access to the park until just a few weeks ago. The earliest articles were from October of 1998. The group had people at every fundraiser and supported the park. There were members of the group present at the City of East Lansing to get the funding. They did feel it would be a bike/skate open access facility. Filice is very interested in this and would like the Board to have information from the Department regarding parks throughout the nation that have shared use. She would like to know what the response from other communities has been. She wants an update on shared use. One of the bikers suggested a site in Pennsylvania by Tim Payne that has completely open use. Leyrer appreciates the group bringing their concerns but the problem she sees is the persons who do not have the protective pegs on their bikes. This park is not a supervised site. Jemerson has no problem with discussing this further but the main reason for saying no rests with liability issues. Jemerson has talked with Tim Payne from Team Pain, Inc. and Payne has written that the facility was designed for skateboarding. There were no bikers attending any of the design meetings,and the park Park Board Minutes-February 2u,2002 6 was designed for levels of skating. The present size and design cannot accommodate bikers and would invariably have more cause for collisions. Part of the safety of the park is the smoothness of the concrete surface. "Pegs, pedals, sprockets, handlebars and any other apparatus on a bike would aggressively deteriorate and chip away the concrete thus creating an unsafe facility which we would not warranty." Payne also noted at this point there is nothing to be done for bike usage unless there was an additional square footage allocation for the bikers. He suggested modular steel ramps and structures. Jemerson is looking into the steel modular units to get a rough idea financially to see what could be done. Mike Souders commented that he had been to Woodward,Pennsylvania which is the park Tim Payne built. This is smaller than the park in Lansing,but bikes are allowed. There was no damage or chips to the park. The groups were using it together. All the extreme sports ride the same courses. This will be further discussed at the March meeting. GLENBURNE LOTS The Director explained a request had been received for the purchase of two lots and rather than dealing with just the two lots, the Glenburne site could be settled. When the property review was taking place, maintaining the access to Fine Park was an issue. The Department recommends all the lots except one be part of a 285 review process to allow for the sale of the lots. These parcels were received from the State of Michigan and were originally designed for home sites. Filice noted the natural pathway pedestrians take is not Lot 051. After discussion, it was determined the access to the park should be through 011 and not 051. This change will be made to keep the lot that is the natural pathway. Filice noted this beautiful greenspace,and we do not need to sell the land. The wildflowers are magnificent. The properties closer to the Lansing School District property could be sold but the properties close to Fine Park and the river should be maintained. MOTION: Filice moved properties adjacent to Fine Park not be considered for disposal including 011, 031, 041 and 051 with lot 011 being the lot to provide access to the park. Any of the parcels adjacent to privately owned properties shall be considered for disposal including 071, 091, 101 and 121. Seconded by Leyrer. Jemerson explained the Marciniaks were interested in purchasing parcels 031 and 041 to build a home. Those parcels are adjacent to Fine Park, The Department's recommendation is to sell all the parcels except O11 to maintain access to Fine Park. The area is being developed, and there are some houses. The Department only needs access to the park and with more homes being built,there will be more persons to watch over the park. Ramey wondered why the lots shouldn't be sold. There are houses all around it. Lott sees no advantage to keeping the three lots adjacent to the park as long as there is access. Filice asked for better visuals at the next meeting and wondered if there was a reason we were rushing to sell the property. Jemerson again explained, a request was received to purchase the properties. Howard commented the information had been sent with the packets for review and this is not being rushed. If the Board does not wish to act at this time,that is a separate issue. Motion failed. (3-2) (No-Howard,Lott,Ramey;Yes-Filice,Leyrer; Abstain-Terrell) Lott suggested the action be postponed to the March meeting to vote on the department's recommendation. Terrell noted she will vote on the item at that time. Park Board Minutes- February!%.,2002 7 2002 GRANT APPLICATION The Department is seeking the Board's support in applying for two grants. 1)The Moores Park Shoreline Improvements would be a MDNR Trust Fund grant to improve the shoreline at Moores Park with the extension of the River Trail from the east end of the park(b the pool)to the west end where it would connect with the sidewalks along Moores River Drive,re-alignment and paving of the road extending east to the pool handicap parking lot, bank stabilization through plantings and stone rip-rap, and improved fishing opportunities with a breakwall. The total project cost is $387,170. 2) The Comstock Park Building Renovation would be a UPARR grant to renovate the deteriorating building at Comstock Park for use as a community building. The renovation of this facility would include roof replacement, electrical and mechanical upgrades,structural modifications,installation of bamer free restrooms,development of apublic meeting space and space for a summer kid's camp. The total project cost is $550,658. MOTION: Lott moved the Board support the submission of the grant applications for the Moores Park Shoreline Improvements and the Comstock Park Building Renovation. Ramey seconded. Motion carried. Filice noted there is an extremely hazardous situation on Moores River Drive. The beautiful embankment and parking lot are attracting many people. It is an extremely hazardous traffic situation. Jemerson noted this is a matter of putting in sidewalks. This was submitted to the Public Service Department. There are some residents there that are adamant that sidewalks do not go in. UPDATES Skate Park-The Board received a copy of the letter sent to Gerald Ambrose,Ingham County Controller, requesting a$20,000 payment.Also a Skatepark Planning Guide was mailed to the Board. Jemerson noted it is time for the LASBRF donation to be made,but the donations have not been forthcoming. The skatepark is scheduled to be opening in a few months and it must be completed. The project must move forward with or without LASBRF. Mount Hope Greenhouse-A response to Filice's request was included in the packet. Daddy/Daughter and Mother/Son Dances-The dances were a tremendous success. The Daddy Daughter was at the Lansing Center attracting 434 attendees. The Mother Son was at the Radisson attracted 115 attendees. The events were held the same evening and it was much easier for families. Mayor Hollister was elected the first Elected Official of the Year by the Michigan Recreation and Park Association at the State Conference. The Aviation Camp spearheaded by Denise Lynch of Lansing Parks and Recreation won the Innovative Recreation Programming Award. INFORMATION Maple Syrup Festival at Fenner will be March 16 and 17,Potter Park Zoological Society Statements were included for 11/3 0/2001 and 12/3 0/2001 and the Board was informed the Spring Guide will be out the week of March 1. Meeting adjourned 9:42 P.M. i Respectfully suti>utted Lee Ann Foreback,Park Board Secretary Approved 3/20/2002. PARK BOARD MINUTES March 20,2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Judith Mohay Filice, Wilbur Howard, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott (arrived at 8:04 p.m. excused), and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Melvin McWilliams (excused) and Claude Ramey(excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Josh Przebienda, Joe Waur, Justin Longstreet, Aaron Kowalk, Andy Faust, Bill Ogilvy,Mike Stafford,Joe Trevino,David Vandegriff,John McDermott, Nelson Jones, Todd Horgett, Mike Souders, Luke Langkamp, David Buffington, Bikers; Amy Roberson, Nathan Roberson, Michael O'Bryan, MatthewPiper,BMX Riders;NickReaves,Skateboarder;George Leichtweis and Ellen Beal, LASBRF; Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Organization; Eric Nordmann and Eleanor Spalding of Nip-n-Sip; Chad Daily, Media; Brian Smith, Hometown Happenings; Zarah J. Marciniak, Glenbume Lots;Jerry Heathcote;John Pollard;Murdock Jemerson,Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:03 P.M. at Scott Center, 125 W. Main St. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS John Pollard noted he was in favor of a dog park but Elm Park may not be the best location. A dog park will be required to remain a dog park due to the nature of animal feces. The park should be separated from utilized areas and from the river. Also, he noted he was disappointed the Board voted to dispose of the Comfort Station. The Board voted 3-2 and that does not show unity,so they should not expect the Comfort Station users to be united in their views. Pollard noted he believes the open meeting act was violated as various people did not talk. Brian Smith of Hometown Neighbors television program commented he had feedback from the February meeting wondering why everyone did not speak,that only five members were present out of eight,that the facilitator only voted on certain votes and why the lease wasn't extended for NLCA when this group has paid their own utilities and bills but a grant is being applied for to build up the Comstock building. James asked how many people gave feedback,and Smith explained four or five people,between calls and e-mails. Howard noted he was chair at the last meeting and does not appreciate others questioning his motivation. He did not intentionally violate any law. He has read the open meetings act and helped write that law in 1975. Public comment was not curtailed. (Meeting paused while room seating was readjusted.) PARK BOARD MINUTES Terrell commented the minutes were extremely detailed. Howard feels the minutes accurately reflect what happened. Filice noted it was detailed but some context was unclear. MOTION: Filice moved the Park Board minutes of February 20, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by Terrell. Motion carried. GLENBURNE LOTS The Director explained this item was tabled in February as some Park Board members were unfamiliar with the site. A request had been received for the purchase of two lots. Staff had presented an overview of the Park Board Minutes -March 2b,.6002 2 area with the eight lots owned by the city on Glenburne Street highlighted recommending that only one lot be kept for access to Fine Park. A display with pictures of the parcels was available for the Board to review. Staffs recommendation is to keep Lot A(011)for access to Fine Park and to include all seven remaining City owned lots in the 285 process for the sale of the lots. These parcels were developed for housing and some houses are in place. Filice also asked if it were wise to sell the parcels beside the privately owned parcel that is for sale. Jemerson noted the City does not plan to purchase additional park land. MOTION: Howard moved the Board supports staff s recommendation to approve the sale of seven of the Glenburne Lots(031,041,051,071,091, 101,and 121)through a285 Review process with one lot(011)being kept for access to Fine Park. Seconded by Leyrer. Discussion followed. Leyrer does not foresee that Lots 071, 091, 101 and 121 are beneficial to Fine Park. She does think 031, 041, and 051 are beneficial to the park. Considering that 021 has a home built on it, these properties will hopefully be developed and occupied by good citizens who will help take care of the park. Filice would consider supporting a motion for the sale of 031 and 041, but until a decision is made to the future of the large lot, she recommends the department retain the four parcels. She feels it would be economically unsound to sell the properties as they may be worth considerably more once the large parcel is developed. Jemerson explained the four parcels are State of Michigan tax reverted lands. The City of Lansing does not get any money other than what we have paid to maintain the land with the State of Michigan receiving the proceeds. Howard noted with the shrinking tax base of the City of Lansing, someone wanting to invest in building a home should be encouraged. This has been listed as excess property. It is residential, and there is not a reason to keep the land. John Pollard commented that the sale of this property without a vote is a violation of the City Charter. Pollard also commented this property was from the State of Michigan with Natural Resources and Environmental Protection funding. He also noted the property list is from 1981 but came from the December 10, 1979 Land Policy Act which also explains how to dispose of park land. Pollard stated the property should be taken to a vote. Brian Smith asked if any park property would require a vote under the 285 review process before disposal. Zarah Marciniak, who had submitted the request to purchase two of the lots, reminded the board this is a subdivision with houses up and down this area.The large empty lot is a vacant piece of land that should not be considered with this proposal. James reminded the Board the issue was not to sell the property to Ms. Marciniak. The vote would be to put this forward for a public review, a 285 review, with the Board's support to dispose of the land. Although Pollard speaks passionately regarding policy,there is a fundamental disagreement regarding what properties require a vote. This transcends this issue. The properties are on the list of potential properties for sale. James repeated that it has been moved and seconded that the Board accept the recommendation of the department to approve the sale of seven of the Glenburne Lots through a 285 Review process with one lot being kept for access to Fine Park. Motion was called. Motion carried (4 yes-James,Howard,Leyrer,Terrell; 1 no-Filice) Filice wondered if any more sale issues were coming before the Board. Jemerson explained there are none planned,but if a request is received,the Board must deal with it. Park Board Minutes -March 24),A02 3 EXTREME BIKE PARK DISCUSSION David Buffington, 322 Hungerford St.,Lansing,noted that when discussion began the park was for all. It was to keep them off the streets and away from the businesses downtown in Lansing,Holt or DeWitt. Now, due to lack of bikers being in attendance or dollars coming from bikers,bikers are not allowed. The bikers will still be downtown. Amy Roberson, 610 Ottawa,Apt 341,Lansing,submitted a letter from Doug Pilkey, Sportspark Manager in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada, and has spoken with Tim Payne. Bikers were led to believe this would be a community open park. There are issues about size and safety discussed in the letter. There is more to why bikes are being banned than just the size and safety issues. Luke Langkamp, 610 Ottawa, Apt 341, Lansing, noted he was downtown riding his bike two weeks ago and was assaulted and robbed by two men. Downtown is unsafe, and bikers would be safer in the park. Andy Faust, 11148 Upton Road, Bath,noted park workers told him bikes would not be allowed because pegs and pedals will damage the concrete coating. The skateboards will scrape and damage concrete also. John McDermott of 1224 Clark St.,Lansing, commented he has children 10 and 12 years old. He does not want them on the streets riding bikes. He wonders where in the city is a safe place for his children to ride. George Leichtweis of East Lansing spoke. He is Chair of the Finance Committee for LASBRF (Lansing Area Skate Bike&Recreation Foundation). He has worked closely with Jemerson regarding this project. He asked if other than the very first meeting at Foster, has any one of these people attended a meeting. Leichtweis was interrupted with comments about bikers being pushed out by the skateboarders. One person brought designs for a park that the skateboarders did not like. Leichtweis continued that he has been at more than 100 meetings for the skatepark on design,building,hiring a person to build it,meeting with kids in the area and there has not been this enthusiasm for bikes. The difference between a bike and a skateboard on cement is the weight. A bike weighs 20-301bs. while a skateboard weighs just 1 or 21bs. He has nothing against bikers and, as chair of the finance committee, has offered to work on raising funds for a bike park. They have worked very hard to raise money over the past few years, and there has been ample opportunity for persons to be involved. If there had been this type of response and energy toward bikes being included in the park, it would have been designed and built to accommodate bikes. Tim Payne has specifically requested that bikes be prohibited as it is not built for bikes. Leichtweis again noted that since the BMX track was built, he has not seen one of the bikers at any of the meetings. He suggested that instead of fighting each other,this energy should be used to get the bikers a park they want with larger obstacles that are spread apart farther. Matthew Piper,B418 Emmons Hall,MSU,East Lansing, explained riding through campus is nice but the skatepark is two blocks away from his residence. It is so close to MSU that some persons will attend MSU just to ride the park. If a park for bikers is built, it will be in a different neighborhood. Nathan Roberson, 610 Ottawa, Apt 341,Lansing, submitted a 27-page printout of public parks that allow open access to their facilities throughout the US. Some of the parks are built by Tim Payne. He was involved at the beginning but moved to Detroit. He is now back in the area. He has spoken to raise money and persons have donated to LASBRF because it is the Lansing Area Skate,Bike&Recreation Foundation. He has been involved in several media campaigns where he has been called to ride on the site location with his bicycle. He had his picture taken and had front page coverage at the beginning of the park. The bikers and skateboarders use the same facilities across the country. The damage to the park will be due to environment. This park is funded by the public, and in this area bikes are very popular. Amy Roberson commented that it was just one year ago that it was decided that bikes were not to be allowed at this park. The group was led to believe they would be included. Filice asked that Jemerson restate what the designer of the park,Tim Payne,recommended regarding shared Park Board Minutes-March 20,4002 4 use of this facility. Jemerson explained Tim Payne had responded the park was not designed for bicycles as the obstacles are'too close, and he will not warranty the park if bicycles are used. Jemerson explained that if the City of Lansing allows bicycles and something happens to the park surface, Payne will not be obligated to repair the park within the time period of the warranty(one year). Discussion on the warranty period and bicycles being allowed after the one year occurred. Jemerson explained the warranty was just one part of the reason bicycles are not allowed. Mike Souders of Holt asked that the Board understand this is an outdoor concrete park in Michigan. It will crack from natural causes. The weather will do more damage than bicyclists or skateboarders combined. The group wants to be included in this park. They do not want a separate park and would like a reason as to why they cannot be allowed. Howard noted he is sympathetic to the bikers' position but this has been an ongoing project. At this point the designer wants it restricted to those users the design was to accommodate. From all indications the bicyclists will not be allowed at Ranney. The question is where can the bikers practice their sport. He is not for or against the bikers,but at this point the design has been completed for the other users. The Board does want to hear comments from the public,but at this point they may not be accommodated. Filice is very familiar with Gier and the BMX track. A tremendous amount of money was invested and now the Board learns the track is not suitable for these users because the Gier dirt BMX track does not meet the needs of extreme bikers who bike on concrete and wood. The City wanted to provide a sporting venue for bikers. The Board was under the impression the BMX track would satisfy the need. Now the City has created a wonderful skatepark. Now at the end of the project, the bikers are back noting they are left out. The Board is very frustrated not to have had earlier input. Todd Horgett from Grand Ledge spoke noting at the last meeting he had articles from the Lansing State Journal and the State News explaining that an extreme sports park was being erected. The articles never specified that it was a skate park,rollerblade park,scooter park. . . it only said the Board was creating areas for people to come together to enjoy their sport. If a skater or a biker falls, there is a potential risk of a lawsuit. He noted if the City has put up$1 million for the park,to exclude a large part of the population does not seem ethical. Ellen Beal of LASBRF commented that the skate surface Tim Payne is completing is $367,000. The City meeting on January 20,2002 discussed the park was not open to bikers. LASBRF already knew this. They realized the City would have liability because it was not designed to accommodate bikers. LASBRF is very concerned that the amenities (lights, sidewalk, expansion of parking lot, tennis courts) are adding up to approximately$700,000. John Pollard noted he was on the Park Board and screamed for bikers and skaters. He remembers some persons from the Foster meeting. He thought the plan would accommodate all groups. He is also confused over the BMX not accommodating all bikers, but realizes now that is not what these bikers want. Pollard commented the skaters had come up with $200,000. The bikers will not be allowed on this park, as the people of Lansing do not need to pay for the repairs. The plan was to have two parks that are major skateparks and to have satellite locations for younger persons to learn the sport. There are many people prepared to work with the bikers (LASBRF, the Park Board, the City of Lansing). Pollard noted in the beginning the groups should stay involved but the bikers did not. It is now too late to include them in this park. The bikers need to move forward. Jemerson explained this was an opportunity for persons to voice their concerns. The decision was made to have this be a skate park not only as a warranty issue but also a liability and potential damage issue. Most of the communities around Michigan are not allowing skateparks and skateparks with bicycles. Our risk manager has reviewed this and after reviewing this with the City of Lansing's insurance company, it was decided that bicycles would not be allowed in the skatepark. Jemerson noted he is a paid public servant and the Board Members are volunteers interested in listening to the comments. This is how things begin. He Park Board Minutes-March 20,L002 5 is pleased to see the bikers present advocating for their sport. He appreciates Pollard's comment as far as continuing to work together. Filice asked if the future development of the northern portion of Ranney Park,specifically the Ranney Park hill,had been discussed. Jemerson reminded the Board a master plan was approved. Filice asked to see this plan again. Discussion followed from audience members attributing comments to Tim Payne. James commented she was not comfortable with hearsay. She has heard the bikers indicate they want more discussion. LASBRF has indicated they would welcome the bikers into their ranks to talk about future fundraising. Jemerson has indicated an interest in the bikers viewpoints. James suggests this be moved out of the Park Board setting into a discussion with Tim Payne. GIER BMX Eric Nordmann of Nip-n-Sip introduced Eleanor Spaulding,co-owners of Nip-n-Sip to the east of the BMX track at Gier. He noted there are issues with the dust at the BMX track and wondered when it would be completed. James asked Nordmann to wait until the end of the meeting and the Board would entertain his comments as this is not an agenda item. Nordmann continued to speak noting his customers deal with the dust and must look at the eyesore that is a BMX track. Jemerson asked to respond although this was not on the agenda. Jemerson explained Nordmann has been shown plans to be bid out to complete this project. The plans are now completed for the irrigation,electrical and grading. The BMX group was working on the tower but has not made progress, so the City had it designed and that did set the plans back. There was a question as to the bidding process on including the tower or bidding it separately. The question will be answered this week and it will go out to bid. Nordmann then commented this would now be done during his business hours and he will have construction issues to deal with while he is running his business. Also,there is now water that flows onto the Nip-n-Sip property. He is asking something be done. SMOKING PROHIBITION AT RANNEY PARK SKATE PARK Jemerson noted the rules state smoking will not be allowed and the City of Lansing has an ordinance prohibiting smoking. This ordinance is cited in the rules. (This was on the agenda because Filice asked it be on the March agenda at the February meeting.) REVIEW OF PARK BOARD RULES OF PROCEDURE Jemerson noted these procedures have not been reviewed since the late 1970's. The Board briefly discussed this item. Ron Lott will review this in depth and bring recommendations back to the Board. UPDATES Skate Park-The Board had received(1) letter of 2/28/02 from Jemerson to LASBRF requesting donations be submitted, (2)letter of 3/6/02 from LASBRF and(3)letter of 3/11/02 from Jemerson included. Ellen Beal of LASBRF spoke noting LASBRF's efforts resulted in Ingham County and East Lansing pledging funds with money being received by the City. She noted the letters all deal with the money. LASBRF feels the group has been making progress and will be submitting a report to City Council detailing the information. She is present because it is very hard to get companies to donate when the City is spending such a large amount. The group is being told that if the City has$1 million to spend,why donate. The bike issue could have been avoided. She noted if the rules had been reviewed by LASBRF before presenting them at a January meeting,they could have been changed as they were misleading to the bikers. Beal commented her issue was the group brought the project forward to be in a partnership with the City, Park Board Minutes -March 20,A02 6 but they do not feel they are being included in decision making. They feel the focus of the City should be what must be spent to get the park up and running in the spring. Otherwise,there will be a huge problem with trespassing. LASBRF does not like the location of the tennis courts. They should be north of the ball diamonds to avoid a conflict of use.If LASBRF has the opportunity to do additional fundraising,this location would be a better location for a peewee park. LASBRF has been told East Lansing wants tennis courts,and tennis courts will be put in place. LASBRF is concerned about the potential failure of this park due to this not being an equal partnership. Other communities have an advisory group to route problems on such sites. LASBRF will provide an accounting for$40,000 in in-kind contributions from various companies around the city. They anticipate they can bring in more. Their Finance Chair, George Leichtweis, has been negotiating with Pepsi for the past 10 months to get$20,000 of up-front money. They anticipate the revenue generated through pop sales and commissions will amount to $60,000 more in the next few years to go to the City of Lansing. LASBRF signed a contract last week but Jemerson contacted Pepsi today and said it must be bid out to Coca-Cola. LASBRF feels it is competing with the City to raise money. This project should not cost this much. Howard commented if groups want to be partners,they must put down money. He asked how much in real dollars has LASBRF given to this partnership,not counting in-kind donations. Beal responded they have pledges between Ingham County and the City of East Lansing for $75,000, and LASBRF has signed a contract with Pepsi for$20,000. They have in-kind contributions that will come off the cost of the project for $40,000. Howard again asked how much they have given as of this point. Beal referred the question to the Finance Chair. Howard again stated he wants to know how many dollars they have given because the City of Lansing had to put up dollars and has to have dollars in place before they can bid out work. He wants to know how many dollars LASBRF has put up as of now. George Leichtweis stated LASBRF has had a difficult time working with the City of Lansing. They are concerned with the escalating cost of the"amenities"and they are concerned about where their monies will go and if the money will be squandered. They have not handed over any money yet. Howard commented LASBRF wanted to be, and has said they are, a partner with the City of Lansing. Partners come equally with money to the table. Howard commented LASBRF wishes to decide who calls the shots because they do not agree with the past planning and how funds are being spent. He asked how much of LASBRF's money is being spent improperly and now he has his answer. Beal and Leichtweis both spoke over each other. Leichtweis noted they are reaching their$200,000 match. Beal noted they are not equal partners. Beal commented they had discussed this with Councilmember Bauer and have been informed the sense of the Council is that if LASBRF said"See you later,we've done our best goodbye" they will fund the rest of it. Beal will be presenting to Councilmember Bauer and the Public Service Committee. Howard asked if there was a pledge early on that LASBRF would raise a certain amount of money. Beal noted they would raise a match. Howard asked if the match had been raised. Beal answered"not that much yet. Howard noted he is not saying the group did not try, but maybe he is not hearing this correctly. He asked Jemerson if the City has received money from LASBRF. Jemerson replied that the City has received,and has attributed to LASBRF's efforts, $20,000 from the City of East Lansing and $30,000 from Ingham County. Beal noted that they would have had all the money earlier except Jemerson represented the money would be used for amenities. Jemerson corrected Beal explaining both East Lansing and Ingham County cannot commit or bind budget dollars from one fiscal year to the next fiscal year. They cannot bind another Council. Beal interrupted saying that is not true and the amenities were a concern. LASBRF is concerned this park will fail. James asked that Beal let Jemerson speak. Beal continued to speak and James interrupted again explaining Beal had spoken and everyone had Park Board Minutes-March 20,L002 7 listened and now Jemerson would speak. This was a discussion. Beal commented it was not a discussion, and she was asking questions and commenting in front of this body. James noted Beal has had far more than her three minutes. If she did not wish to discuss the issue,the Board has heard her comments. George Leichtweis noted he has been involved in this project for four years. He has spent hundreds of hours in negotiations regarding funding for the skatepark. Pete Bosheff has also done the same and has produced tens of thousands of dollars in in-kind donations and many monetary donations. He is disturbed that LASBRF has not been included in the decision making of the build out of this entire project. They have pledged to fund raise their matching amount of$200,000 and have worked very hard to reach that goal. They initiated contacts from the City of East Lansing and Ingham County only to have Jemerson come and speak to have the money from these groups go to amenities. It has since been corrected. In Leichtweis's meetings with the East Lansing and Ingham County they said they would not give any money unless LASBRF was involved. An additional $20,000 is coming from East Lansing. Leichtweis explained LASBRF has a contract with Pepsi. He put up $5,000 four years ago that is still in the account. He promised in writing that LASBRF would give $200,000 in matching funds. He was told to proceed with the contract with Pepsi,and he has a contract in hand to meet the matching goal within several years...maybe sooner. Leichtweis noted he has worked closely with Jemerson. Jemerson is a good man who is interested in getting the project finished. He respects him and,while there are some personality conflicts between some people in LASBRF and the City,this it can be worked out and in the long run everyone will say it is a great project. He does want to say that after 22 years in the skate business and having researched more than 100 skateparks in the US and Europe,he cannot figure out why the City of Lansing does not embrace him and the associates in LASBRF and seek their advice on how to complete this project to have a quality skatepark at a reasonable cost with little or no future maintenance issues. Personally, he has never been asked his opinion on design items like seeding, fencing, refuse containers, vending machines, use of bikes, tennis courts and such. He always had to volunteer his opinion based on his extensive knowledge of these parks and his experience in the skate business. He thinks this project can be finished with everyone involved. He does not feel the City has appreciated their efforts at this point. All LASBRF is concerned about is the project is constructed properly in the most efficient manner possible with a reasonable budget. They do not want any credit for it. They just want it done right without wasting money. Ron Lott commented that he had also contributed to LASBRF. He wondered where the money that has been contributed is and will it be given to the City before the park being used. Leichtweis noted a meeting was scheduled for Friday to discuss this. Filice wondered if LASBRF would be doing major fundraising before the park opening. She asked the group consider recycling cans at various places such as L&L for the purpose of the returned monies going toward the skate parks. Leichtweis noted it was an excellent idea, and he appreciated the suggestion. Filice also thought that when civic groups come before the Board,the Board should try as much as possible to maintain a willingness and cordiality in receiving the comments, because the Board wants groups to create a stronger park system. INFORMATION The Board also had been mailed the Special Events Calendar update of 3/5/02, Potter Park Zoo Events 2002,a 2/22/02 memo to the Mayor regarding the February meeting, a letter to Tom Powers of NLCA date 3/5/02 regarding a Special Use Permit and a draft of the Ranney Park Skate Park Rules. ADJOURNED. Respectfully submitted Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved 5/15/2002. (April meeting canceled) PARK BOARD MINUTES May 15, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Judith Mohay Filice (late) , Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott (late), Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Wilbur Howard (unexcused), Melvin McWilliams (excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Organization; Brian Smith, Hometown Happenings; Christine Timmon, Bev Marsh, Beverly Miller, Sherry Shaw; Mary Winegar, Manager of Leisure Services, Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M. at Scott Center, 125 W. Main St. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA Jemerson asked that the Urban and Community Forestry Grant Application for 2002 be placed on the agenda. This had been submitted previously for a grant. Assigned to Old Business as B. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Beverly Miller asked several questions regarding the decision to sell the Comfort Station questioning motives, and criteria used. Discussion followed centering on the process. Filice apologized for being late and stated for the record she did not deny the group a lease. Filice spoke at length reiterating her opinion on the Comfort Station. The Park Board felt the NLCA was functioning in a way that was not productive but Filice did not share that opinion. Filice again noted it is extremely important the building stays under public jurisdiction. Lott also arrived. Christine Timmon inquired as to the policy for use of a public facility under the jurisdiction of Parks and Recreation. She wondered if private citizens receive keys or if someone from the city is present. Jemerson explained Scott Center is an example of how the city works with citizens. There are several groups who have keys and access to the facility. A key is signed out to one person for the group. Timmon felt keys should not be given out. (James left the meeting for approximately one hour.) Jemerson confirmed that Ms. Timmon was concerned about subversive activity. Timon was concerned that one person in a group could have access while the remainder of a group would be unaware. Discussion followed on the practice of keys being issued to groups or persons who use the facilities due to economic difficulties and user convenience. Timmon again stated no one person should have a key to a public facility. Dorothy Jones noted that a key was issued to the Moores Park neighborhood group because there was terrible vandalism with the building being open all the time. The previous facility was destroyed. By restricting the issuing of keys, the use of the park will be restricted. Park Board Minutes - May 15, 2002 2 MINUTES MOTION: Leyrer moved the Park Board minutes of March 20, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. MOTION: Filice moved minutes from other Parks and Recreation advisory and citizen boards be accepted and placed on file; seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. PARK BOARD RULES OF PROCEDURE The Park Board Rules of Procedure had not been reviewed for several years. Lott had been asked to review these and draft a revision which was distributed to the Board. Discussion followed. Questions were asked about the annual report required by the Charter. MOTION: Terrell moved the Board accept the draft document and that it be moved forward to be approved by the Mayor and Council; seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. FORESTRY GRANT APPLICATION An application for the Urban and Community Forestry Grant was distributed for the Board's approval. This is the same grant that was applied for previously,but not awarded, regarding the GIS compatible software system to inventory and track city trees. The City match is in-kind services. MOTION: Filice moved the Urban and Community Forestry grant application be approved and submitted for consideration; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. LEISURE SERVICES DIVISION PRESENTATION BY MARY WINEGAR, MANAGER Winegar appreciated the opportunity to present and explain the upcoming summer programs as well as to highlight some of the outstanding spring programs. She distributed copies of the Summer 2002 Activities Guide and also a handout on the programs. The overview presentation consisted of highlighting each section's focus via a power point presentation. This included the Community Centers (Foster, Gier and Letts), Fenner Nature Center, Turner-Dodge House, Lifetime Sports and Special Recreation Services. She detailed exceptional programs in each section. UPDATES BY THE DIRECTOR Jemerson updated the Board on the status of Ranney Park Skate Park, Gier Park Renovations - BMX, First Tee Program, Restroom Facility Renovations-Westside Park and Lansing Community College and the closure of the Comfort Station. Bev Marsh spoke explaining she would like the Comfort Station to remain part of the city and be open for all to use. Beverly Miller asked about the Park Board Minutes - May 15, 2002 3 possibility of lead-based paint and asbestos. Jemerson noted this was being investigated by the City of Lansing's building inspectors. Christine Timmon stated she doesn't want anyone using this building. Jemerson again explained the building was closed. LETTER FROM JOHN POLLARD OF 4/1/02 A letter from John Pollard was received for the Board's information. MRPA REQUEST FOR RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT Michigan Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) is seeking the Board's help in supporting the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund's effort to raise the cap from$400 million to $500 million. Jemerson will explain this further at the next meeting. BOARD MEMBER REMARKS Filice had taken children from Otto to Oldsmobile Park via the River Trail. She noted the trail is not clearly identifiable just before Shiawassee Street and continuing to Michigan Avenue. She asked that this be reviewed. Also, she asked about the status of the emergency telephones. Jemerson explained the Lansing Police Department conducted a study and applied for a grant which was not awarded. This would be very costly and many people now carry cell phones. This did not fall into the upper priority of needs. Mary James returned. Leyrer asked about the Foster Park restroom status. There are many activities at the park and some have been canceled due to the lack of a restroom. Jemerson noted Foster Park is part of the restroom project but it is the second phase. Discussion followed on the possibility of repairing the current building to allow the children to use it. The Board stressed it is interested in simply repairing the facility to make it usable. It is not interested in turning this into a restoration project. Jemerson will investigate and report to the Board at the June meeting. Ramey asked about restrooms for the BMX group at Gier. He suggested the restrooms at the Gier ballfields be made available. Jemerson noted that could be done. If Brian Haught of the BMX group lets the department know, the restrooms can be opened. Terrell is interested in an update on the MSU boathouse and the curriculum they have provided to work with the community. Filice asked the group also present a landscaping plan. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully submitted 4.,-�'L_�" Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Minutes approved June 19, 2002. PARK BOARD MINUTES June 19, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Judith Mohay Filice, Wilbur Howard, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott (late), Melvin McWilliams and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Claude Ramey (excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Ann Beaujean, Ben Darling, Karen Langeland, Scott Menoch, Ron Mason, Stacey Rippetoe, Matt Weise of MSU; Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood; Brian Smith, Hometown Happenings; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:10 P.M. at Scott Center, 125 W. Main St. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA Request to vacate David Street R-O-W Act-3-02 added under New Business. MSU OUTREACH PRESENTATION Ann Beaujean,Director of State Relations for MSU, spoke to the board explaining the positive effect the new facility has had on the women's rowing program. Ron Mason, Athletic Director at MSU, attended to familiarize himself with the various outreach programs. A handout explaining MSU's Women's Crew Outreach Programs for the City of Lansing was distributed and reviewed by Matt Weise. He reviewed the new programs including the"WeCanRow" program for breast cancer survivors, the "Girl Power" program for rowing which provides a role model for girls in the City of Lansing and the"Water Triathlon"which introduces rowing, kayaking and canoeing to city residents. The "Water Triathlon" program was canceled due to lack of participation. Discussion followed. Terrell noted the outreach programs need better marketing. There are scout groups which could explore new badges, schools could arrange field trips, etc. The information must be distributed to the schools rather than just placed as an ad in the paper or program guide. Partnerships with the schools or other groups would enable more children to participate. Howard reminded MSU that his original concern and request was to have poor and minority children and adults involved. Lansing needs to be educated as to rowing and minorities need to be included. Outreach programs must be successful in reaching these children. Ben Darling of MSU discussed the landscaping and grooming of the area surrounding the facilities. Some board members expressed concern over the stark appearance of the new facility and wondered about the lack of vegetative screening around the facility. The Board thanked the MSU staff for appearing and updating them. Park Board Minutes - June 19, 2002 Page 2 MINUTES MOTION: Leyrer moved the Park Board minutes of May 15, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by McWilliams. Motion carried. Minutes and notes from other department advisory groups were accepted and placed on file. FOSTER PARK RESTROOM Jemerson had met with Management Services staff and reviewed the problems at the current facility. PROPOSAL 2 FUNDS FOR THE FUTURE Michigan Recreation and Parks Association had requested the Park Board pass a resolution supporting Proposal 2 on the August 6, 2002, primary ballot. Discussion followed with the item being tabled for more information at the July meeting. JULY PARK BOARD MEETING CONFLICT Wednesday, July 17 is the date scheduled for the reopening celebration at the Turner-Dodge House during the Concert in the Park. To enable the Board to attend this event, the members agreed to meet the second Wednesday of July. The July meeting will be held July 10 at a site to be determined. RIVER TRAIL (NORTHWEST) ROW ACQUISITION, MDNR TRUST FUND ACQUISITION GRANT APPLICATION The department sought the Board's support in applying for an MDNR Trust Fund Acquisition Grant to acquire the Norfolk/Southern abandoned railroad right-of-way from Knollwood Avenue to the active Norfolk/Southern line which would be at a point if Glenrose Avenue was extended north to the River Trial. A map was provided to the Board.. To align the future River Trail along the Grand River a segment of the abandoned right-of-way to be acquired would be traded with land currently owned by private citizens. A draft resolution was distributed. Discussion followed. MOTION: Terrell moved the Board supports the department's recommendation to apply for the grant to allow acquisition of the Norfolk/Southern abandoned railroad right of way as approved in the Capital Improvement List reviewed by the Board in December 2001. Seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. REQUEST TO VACATE DAVID ST. R-O-W EAST OF VERMONT ACT-3-02 Jemerson explained this would add approximately 33' to the north end of Porter Park. He recommended approving the vacation of David Street R-O-W with the property becoming part of the park property. Park Board Minutes - June 19, 2002 Page 3 MOTION: Lott moved the Board support the Department's recommendation to vacate the David St. R-O-W. Seconded by McWilliams. Motion carried. UPDATES BY THE DIRECTOR Jemerson updated the Board on the status of Ranney Park Skate Park with the opening scheduled for June 29, Gier Park Renovations -BMX, Durant Park Grant, First Tee Program, Restroom Facility Renovations - Westside Park and Lansing Community College, Bancroft Park and the Comfort Station. CORRESPONDENCE A letter from LASBRF dated 5/28/02 to Rod Macdonald was received by the Board. INFORMATION The Board had received in their packets a special event calendar updated 6/6/02 and a memo referring the Park Board Rules of Procedure to the Mayor. BOARD MEMBER REMARKS Filice questioned the staffing at Cooley Gardens. There is one full-time Gardener on site and two part time interns who are funded by the Friends of Cooley Gardens. Filice expressed a concern about the level of maintenance as it did not seem"up to par" when she visited this weekend and wondered if the other department staff supported this location. Jemerson explained this is the first comment he has received expressing concern and he will follow-up. James commented that Frances Park has also had some problems with maintenance this year with an example being the overlook area not being mowed in a timely fashion. Filice commented that she hoped the Board Members who replace her and Howard will be dedicated stewards of park land. Jemerson noted he has enjoyed working with Filice and Howard on the Board. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully submitted: Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved July 10, 2002. PARK BOARD AGENDA JULY 10, 2002 BOARD MEMBERS: Mary James, Ruth Leyrer, Ronald Lott, Melvin McWilliams, Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M., Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster, Room 213 1. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA 2. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS The public may address the Board on the non-agenda items. Comments should be limited to three minutes on any single item. The public may also address the Board on agenda items after the presentation of the item and the Park Board members' questions have been answered. 3. BOARD MEETING MINUTES A. June 19, 2002 Park Board Minutes B. Other Board Minutes 4. OLD BUSINESS A. Proposal 2 - Funds for the Future - Request from MRPA 5. NEW BUSINESS 6. UPDATES A. Ranney Park Skate Park B. Gier Park Renovations - BMX C. First Tee Program D. Restroom Facility Renovations - Westside Park and Lansing Community College, Bancroft Park 7. CORRESPONDENCE 8. INFORMATION A. Special Event Calendar Updated 7/1/02 B. Opening Ceremony and Celebration @ Turner Dodge House 7/17/02 9. REMARKS BY BOARD MEMBERS Bold - requires board action PARK BOARD MINUTES y .ffi � July 10, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott (late-excused), Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Melvin McWilliams (excused) (Two Vacant Positions) OTHERS PRESENT: Ed Carpenter, President of Friends of Turner-Dodge; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:40 P.M. at Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster St. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Ed Carpenter, President of Friends of Turner-Dodge, invited the Park Board to attend the July 17 dedication of Turner-Dodge prior to the concert. Carpenter also thanked the Board and the City for their support of the renovations. (The Park Board had changed the date of their monthly meeting to allow attendance at this event.) UPDATES - Director Updates Board Ranney Skate Park- The park has been open since June 29 and there are a few things that still must be accomplished such as gate installation. The tennis courts have been completed. Gier Park Renovations-BMX- Council's Public Service Committee had an update by the Director and Brian Haught of BMX as there has been interest in the attendance of Lansing youth. Haught reported there are approximately 240 children riding in races and 139 of those are City of Lansing children. This does not include the children who use the park when it is not scheduled for BMX sanctioned activities. The track is open for public use when events are not taking place. A pre-bid meeting was held today regarding the next round of renovations which includes parking lot paving, installation of the track tower, electrical and water to the track. The department is aiming for construction in September. Ramey noted there is a big BMX event in August that will draw over 3,000. First Tee - The Director will be reviewing a first draft of the conceptual drawings with Councilmember Allen. The hope is to have groundbreaking this fall. First Tee must accomplish something at this site prior to the end of the year to retain a grant they have received from Nike. Restroom Renovations - Davis, Westside and Kircher restroom renovations will be out to bid soon. Regarding the joint project with Lansing Community College to renovate Westside for use in the Girls' softball program,the department has completed the reseeding of the outfield and the irrigation and drainage are completed. Once L.C.C. has submitted their pledge of$90,000, the project will proceed. Ron Lott arrived. Bancroft Park - Since the grant application for Comstock Park was not selected, the local share ($165,000) is being transferred to the Bancroft Park restroom renovation fund. The city has been investigating lower cost restrooms. Bancroft had a warming house in this building also. The department is interested in placing a pre-engineered, simple restroom at this site with a sprayground. Park Board Minutes - July 10, 2002 D R A Page 2 A sprayground is a concave area with water toys that squirt water. `These can be built for $65,000 to$90,000. Jemerson has a video. Portable toilets were again discussed. Terrell noted Pinckney had used a 4-stall drop-in facility for 1'/z years while permanent facility was built. It was an attractive structure. Leyrer commented she was by Foster Park during t-ball and there were 50 to 60 people in the park. Small parks could use a portable toilet with some sort of structure to keep the vandals from tipping them over. MINUTES Discussion followed with amendments made to the June 19,2002,minutes. The motions did not have who moved and seconded them. The Board supplied the persons who had moved and seconded each motion. Also Terrell asked that her recommendation that MSU develop a plan for their outreach program and bring it back to the board for review well in advance of implementation be included. MOTION: Terrell moved the Park Board minutes of June 19, 2002, be approved as amended; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. Jemerson will be meeting with Ron Mason, Athletic Director at MSU, to review their outreach program. Terrell will also attend. Lott requested he be notified of the Crew Club's meets. Minutes and notes from other department advisory groups were accepted and placed on file. PROPOSAL 2 FUNDS FOR THE FUTURE Michigan Recreation and Parks Association had requested the Park Board pass a resolution supporting Proposal 2 on the August 6, 2002, primary ballot. Following discussion this item was tabled at the June meeting. Jemerson had received further clarification of Proposal 2 from one of the grant administrators with the MDNR. Currently, the MNRTF is funded from oil drilling leases. Currently the fund can spend one third of the revenues from the leases and the interest. When the fund has a total of 2 million dollars, only the interest can be spent. When the fund reaches 4 million dollars, the interest cannot be spent either. The change in the Charter wold allow the continuation of spending one third of the revenues and the interest until a 5 million dollar cap is met. MOTION: Lott moved the Board support Proposal 2 in the August primary;seconded by Terrell. Motion carried. Jemerson will forward this to the Mayor and Council and also send it to MRPA so our support is on record. INFORMATION - Special Event Calendar Update of 7/1/02 mailed to Board Meeting adjourned. DRAFt PARK BOARD MINUTES August 21, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James (late excused), Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott Melvin McWilliams, Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: (Two Vacant Positions) OTHERS PRESENT: Jeff Cornell, Bill Houghtaling, Maynard Cornell and Sue Eareckson, Friends of Bancroft Park; Paul Yauk; Murdock Jemerson, Director, and Phil Dorland, Deputy Director, Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M. at Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster St. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA -None STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS a Sue Eareckson. President of Friends of Bancroft Park, was prese R..with two other organization members, Jeff and Maynard Cornell, and also Bill Houghtaling who is President of the North Town Neighborhood Association. North Town has extended its boundaries so the park is now included, and North Town supports proposed park improvements. Jemerson and Dorland attended their last Friends of Bancroft Park meeting and the group is excited about proposed improvements including working restrooms and updated recreational use of the ballfield area. As it is difficult to get parents of young children to attend meetings, the group is reaching out to these parents to determine what they would like in the ballfield area. Eareckson noted the group is interested in a jointly financed spray park. This could be included with a significant ballfield area also. North Town has agreed to help fund-raise for this project. She attended to inform the Board and request support in the form of a letter. Lott noted the Board is always in favor of improving the facilities, especially when groups of neighbors are interested in sharing the cost. Jemerson will keep the Board informed. Paul Yauk spoke about boater safety on the Grand River. Yauk is requesting a No Wake Zone or No Wake Times on the Grand River be implemented between the Martin Luther King Bridge and the Waverly Road Bridge as the river way is narrow in this area. There has been an increase in motorized boating and rowing and canoes. This will make the users safer and help protect the shoreline. The Department would need to work with the Ingham County Marine Sheriff to develop an ordinance and sign the Grand River Park with the boating rules. This would enable the Sheriff to enforce the ordinance. Jemerson noted Yauk had visited with him and requested Jemerson follow-up. Jemerson is getting some confusion over who proposes this type of ordinance between the Ingham County Marine Sheriff and the MDNR Law Enforcement. Yauk believes this must be proposed locally. Jemerson noted the Park Board does not have jurisdiction over the water. McWilliams arrived. MINUTES MOTION: Ramey moved the Park Board minutes of July 10, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes - August 21, 2002 Page 2 MSU CREW CLUB - RON MASON MEETING A�etic Terrell updated the Board on the meeting she attended with Ron Mason, Director at MSU, and Jemerson. It was determined that four or five of the summer playground sites would have a one week all day program at the park by MSU. It would involve row boats and boating/water safety. This will expose children to water activitiest and on the last day the MSU Crew Team will be able to provide a demonstration. MSU is looking into getting buses to bus the children to the park and also into buying or renting the rowboats. Lansing Parks and Recreation would have the children ready to participate with signed permission slips. This was a very productive,exciting meeting. Once it was understood that the goal was to involve children with the water and water safety, things progressed successfully. More discussions will follow. 9-11 FREEDOM MEMORIAL EVENT Jemerson explained the events leading up to the steel and state trees being placed in Wentworth Park as a memorial. This included the preliminary discussion of a living memorial and the possibility of obtaining a portion of a beam from New York City. When contact was made,there was less than one week remaining in the time New York City would continue allowing various cities to obtain a piece of the World Trade Center. Staff went to pick up the steel on very short notice. Wentworth was decided on due to the downtown location and the reflective nature of the park. The steel from the world trade center was erected along with a state tree from New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. MOTION: McWilliams moved the Board support the department's efforts in obtaining a piece of steel and erecting this steel in Wentworth Park; seconded by Terrell. Motion carried. RIVER TRAIL EXPANSION - ACT 285 REVIEWS Jemerson explained the Board had reviewed the expansion plans at previous meetings. Now this will go to the Planning Board for a review process with specific information on the properties we want to acquire either by fee simple or easement. Dorland distributed supplemental information to the Board on the acquisitions and a map packet. Since the presentation on the plan last year, the department has continued refining the route and has made contacts with some of the property owners. Now it is time to continue the process and send specific information on the properties we must obtain rights to either by easement or outright purchase through fee simple. The Planning Board looks at the specific properties, sends out hearing notices to people within 300'of the property,holds a public hearing,refers comments to the committee afterwards and makes a recommendation to City Council. The south leg of the trail will run from Potter Park to the south border of the City at I-96. Public land takes the trail to Cavanaugh (through Ingham County's Hawk Island Park). Past Cavanaugh, we will need to obtain rights to the various properties by easement or fee simple. Although the Park Board has taken action on a number of items in terms of the routing, it was deemed appropriate to actually make a motion recommending the specific properties that we need to acquire rights to. The northwest leg of the trail will run from Dietrich Park to Kaplan and Sunset. A MDNR Trust Fund Grant has been applied for to acquire the abandoned railroad right of way which is a segment of this leg. Park Board Minutes - August 21, 2002 Page 3 MOTION: The Parks and Recreation Department has recommen referred route for the extension of the River Trail to the south and northwest.nn order to develop the trail along this preferred route in the future, rights to various properties need to be obtained either by easement or in fee simple. Moved by Lott that he Parks Board supports obtaining rights to the following properties; South Acquisitions 33.01.01.34.402.103 Owned by Alex and Mary Bogner 33.01.01.34.426.014 Owned by Alex and Mary Bogner 33.01.01.34.426.142 Owned by Reyn Hendrickson et al and leased to Erb Lumber 33.01.01.34.476.143 Owned by Kelly Dean, Dean Investment Properties 33.01.01,34.476.114 Owned by Wolverine Development 33.01.01.35.355.091 Owned by Zelma Davis Northwest Acquisitions 33.01.01.09.101.041 Owned by Christopher A. & Judy Helms 33.01.01.09.101.031 Owned by Lynn B. Dunbar 33.01.01.09.152.012 Owned Consumsan Company 33.01.01.08.229.002 Owned by Pennsylvania Lines LLC 33.01.01.08.228.621 Owned by Pennsylvania Lines LLC 33.01.01.08.227.181 Owned by Pennsylvania Lines LLC 33.01.01.05.451.201 Owned by Pennsylvania Lines LLC 33.01.01.05.451.221 Owned by Pennsylvania Lines LLC 33.01.01.05.451.151 Owned by George and Delores Lentz and recommends approval b the Planning Board Mayor and It C�o'uncil. Seconded pp Y g Y by McWilliams. < Motion carried. UPDATES - Director Updates Board West Nile Virus-The two Snowy Owls have died and it may be West Nile virus. The birds were sent to the MSU animal laboratory and then tissue samples were sent to Cornell University in New York. The diagnosis is not confirmed but it is highly suspected. The Michigan zoos have all lost their Snowy Owls. Ranney Skate Park- The park is being heavily used by the skateboarders. There is vandalism being done to the Pepsi machines. Steps are being taken to remedy this. With the exception of the pop machines, everything is going great. There were people playing tennis and handball. The arch is in place. Gier Park Renovations-BMX-Irish Construction will be doing the renovations and the tower. We are two or three weeks from beginning construction. The BMX large event (over 3,000 people) is this weekend. Ramey asked if the group had permission to camp overnight and also about the restroom facilities being open during the event and table and trash container needs. Jemerson explained he would be dealing with Haught regarding this and keeping Ramey up-to-date. First Tee-A meeting was held with the local community by Sycamore Golf Course which discussed residents concerns regarding flooding and the building location. Pat Lindemann, Ingham County Park Board Minutes - August 21, 2002 Page 4 Drain Commissioner, was present to ease some concerns. Lisa Woodcock of First Tee was there with a draft plan that the Building Maintenance staff has reviewed and it will be-further improved. This will be brought to the board at the next meeting. We are hoping tq Hcdhstruction in the spring. r V,: Restroom Renovations - Davis, Westside and Kircher restroom renovations will be out to bid in approximately two weeks. It will be late October when construction begins which is good because the ball season will be over. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS James noted that the State of Michigan donated the 150 trees that were planted along Martin Luther King Boulevard in honor of the Sesquicentennial and now most of them are dead. Both sides have dead trees but the west side of MLK between Ottawa and Kalamazoo many, many dead trees. James asked this be investigated and the plan for this area, be reported back to the Board. Lott asked the status of new members for the Board. Leyrer will ask Rick Kibbey to complete an application. Meeting adjourned. ��' PARK BOARD MINUTES September 18, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott, Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Melvin McWilliams (excused), 2 Vacancies OTHERS PRESENT: Brian Smith; Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Association; Murdock Jemerson, Director, Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:06 P.M., Scott Center, 124 W. Main ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA -None STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Brian Smith asked for background as to the building being torn down at Clifford Park. Jemerson explained it had been a restroom/pavilion area that had deteriorated beyond reasonable restoration. There had been several complaints from the neighborhood. Lott asked if the 1990 millage signs would come down from the park. Jemerson noted those 1990 signs would be coming down throughout the park system. MINUTES MOTION: Lott moved the Park Board minutes of August 21, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by Terrell. Motion carried. MEMORIAL FOR LARRY BROWN ON RIVER TRAIL A letter from Kathy Brown requesting a memorial on the river trail was sent with the Park Board packets. Mr. Brown passed away while running on the trail near Potter Park Zoo. He was a member of the Capital City River Runners and the group had asked to place a large rock with an inscription near the Elm Street ball diamond and also Blue Spruce trees. The Council Committee on General Services has approved this. The Park Board's recommendation will be forwarded to the Memorial Review Board. MOTION: Lott moved the Park Board forward this to the Memorial Review Board with a recommendation for approval; seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. MEETING DATE CHANGE FOR OCTOBER(FROM 10/16 TO 10/23) MOTION: Leyrer moved to change the Board meeting date from October 16, 2002 to October 23, 2002; seconded by Lott. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes - September 18, 2002 Page 2 BUDGET INFORMATION PREFERENCES Jemerson asked the Board what kind of information from last year was beneficial to the Board's understanding. Last year bar graphs were presented with descriptions of the different cost centers comparing one fiscal year to the next fiscal year for each division within the department. Discussion followed. It was determined that the comparisons were very helpful and requested actuals for 2001 and 2002 with the budget for 2003 and the request or projects for 2004. This helped give perspective and also to prioritize items. The bar graphs were helpful along with the staff presentations. This informed the Board as to the supervisors' priorities. Less paper and the condensed version from staff detailing what may be lost or what is new would be of interest. Discussion of the Capital Improvement Program, millage dollars, enterprise funds and trust funds also followed. UPDATES -Director Updates Board 911 Remembrance Memorial - This happened in five weeks from the decision to the dedication. Local businesses stepped forward to enable this memorial to be in place. The Board commended Jemerson and staff for their commitment to this project. Jemerson noted the Parks and Recreation staff did an outstanding job. Potter Park Zoo Accreditation-Jemerson and Gerry Brady, Zoo Director, went to Ft. Worth Texas to appear before the AZA Accreditation Committee. The curator/veterinarian position was a key part in keeping the accreditation. The Committee had voted unanimously to approve the accreditation. Leyrer asked what funding options were available now that accreditation had been retained. Jemerson explained a zoo must be accredited to obtain exotic species such as Siberian Tigers. Without accreditation, Potter would be a glorified petting zoo. General discussion followed. First Tee - A draft of a floor plan of a building at Sycamore Golf Course for the First Tee was presented. Gove and Associates are donating their services to do the engineering work, construction drawings and bid specifications. (Ron Lott left the meeting.) This will be just south of the existing starter house. The building had been moved to this location at Sycamore Golf Course at the suggestion of the community. Ranney Skate Park- Our Garage Section is putting together cages for the Pepsi machines to reduce vandalism. These cages are also at Groesbeck and Red Cedar Golf Courses. Parks and Recreation is paying $750 for materials for the cages. Pepsi has provided the $15,000 donation. Gier Park Renovations-BMX-Irish Construction is on-site preparing to begin construction. Ramey noted there were about 3,000 people there at their August event. Screening has been placed along the fence by Nip-n-Sip. Restroom Renovations-Westside Park and Lansing Community College,Bancroft Park,Davis Park and Kircher-The bid should be going out very shortly for Westside,Davis&Kircher Parks restroom facilities and the new ballfield lights and bleachers for Ranney. This will be one bid. Ways and Means Committee approved a transfer of$165,000 for Bancroft Park. This was from the local match for the Comstock grant we did not receive. This will allow the design phase to begin. Park Board Vacancies - The Mayor has recommended Rick Kibbey, and he is expected to be Park Board Minutes - September 18, 2002 Page 3 appearing before Public Services Committee for approval. Hopefully, there will be another recommendation soon. Dorothy Jones and Brian Smith both expressed disapproval in Rick Kibbey's recommendation. James noted the Park Board does not select its members. BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS At the August meeting James asked about the trees on Martin Luther King Boulevard between Kalamazoo and Ottawa being dead and what would be done about this. Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, had noted that the trees are owned by the State of Michigan because MLK is a State of Michigan owned roadway at that point. The trees were planted in mid summer several years ago as a part of the Martin Luther King Boulevard construction project. The species,red maple,was a poor choice for the site and the planting time left a lot to be desired. The State had the contractor maintain the trees for at least one year but after that initial maintenance period nothing has been done to help the trees. The City of Lansing is paid by the State for some tree maintenance activities. We are reimbursed by the State at a rate of 50%to prune their trees, 100%to cut down their trees, and 0% to plant/water trees. Forestry will cut down the dead trees but any replacement is up to the property owner, the State of Michigan. Leyrer suggests that the Park Board write a letter to the Governor asking the questions regarding the appearance of this area. James will prepare a letter and send it on behalf of the Park Board. General discussion followed on the original plans and planting plans for this area. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully submitted: ��-- Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved October 29, 2002. PARK BOARD MINUTES October 29, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott, Melvin McWilliams, Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Two Vacancies OTHERS PRESENT: Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Association; Brian Smith; Gary Andrews and Aaron Walton of Lansing Area Flying Aces; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation and staff including Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, Tim Simon, Oak Park Garage Equipment Supervisor, Don Ballard, Golf Manager CALL TO ORDER: 7:06 P.M., Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster Avenue ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO AGENDA-Additions under Updates F.Presentation on Ranney Park, G. MSU Boat Club and H. Portable Toilets. MINUTES MOTION: Lott moved the Park Board minutes of September 18, 2002, be approved as presented; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. Other Department Board Minutes were placed on file. IMPRESSION 5 EASEMENT ALONG RIVER TRAIL- FEE PAYMENT The River Trail had encroached onto land owned by Impression 5 Condominium, and the department requested an easement. Impression 5 Condominium requested the department pay the legal fees to develop the easement($5,916.75). The department is requesting Park Board support to use millage monies to pay this fee. Discussion followed. Concern was expressed over setting a precedent. MOTION: Lott moved the Board accept the draft resolution to pay the legal expenses for Impression 5 Condominium as noted. Ramey seconded. Motion carried. [5-1 (Leyrer No)] NAMING OF CITY OF LANSING PARKS AND FACILITIES Director asked that the Board review the current guidelines and history pertaining to the naming City of Lansing Parks. A request had went to the Memorial Review Board to rename a park. The Memorial Review Board then referred the request to the Park Board for a recommendation as an area under Parks and Recreation jurisdiction is involved. Broad Park Board Guidelines for the naming of parks and facilities had been developed previously. Jemerson asked the Board if they are satisfied with the current guidelines and how they fit into the Memorial Review Board's role. McWilliams noted the current guidelines should be utilized to act on the request that is currently before the Park Board. Discussion followed. Park Board Minutes - Oc. ..,er 29, 2002 (Tuesday) Page 2 It was determined that a subcommittee of the Park Board will be appointed to review the current guidelines and recommend changes if necessary. Ruth Leyrer and Mel McWilliams were appointed. MOTION: Lott moved the Board postpone action on the guidelines until they have been reviewed by the committee for the December meeting; seconded by Leyrer. (Later in the meeting the Board agreed this would be presented at the January 2003 meeting.) Motion carried. REQUEST TO RENAME FILLEY PARK IN HONOR OF HAROLD A. MOORE A request has been referred from the Memorial Review Board regarding the renaming of Filley Park in honor of Harold A. Moore. Suggested names were Moore-Filley Park or Filley-Moore Park. After this request had been sent to the Memorial Review Board, the family requested the park be named "Harold A. Moore Memorial Park." Dorothy Jones spoke noting that it would be confusing if there were two parks named "Moore." MOTION: McWilliams moved the Park be renamed "Harold A. Moore Memorial Park." Seconded by Ramey. Discussion followed. The Board discussed various options as some members preferred not to rename a park. As time progresses and people continue to do great things for the community, there will not be enough parks. Ramey noted Mr. Moore lived behind this park for over 40 years, contributed a great deal to the community and is deserving of having a tribute.Discussion followed on the petition format, geographic area to be included and need for a public hearing. James noted the Board is in the position of passing judgement on a person who had done many things for Lansing, was well-loved and respected, and who also had something named after him, "Moore Living Center." James explained if the Board has doubts, they can ask specific things from the Memorial Review Board rather than just supporting the request or not supporting the request. Terrell wondered what the two alternative memorials were that would be acceptable according to the form that is submitted to the Memorial Review Board. This form had not been submitted to the Parks and Recreation Department. James called the question. Motion failed. (Yes -Ramey, Lott, McWilliams;No -Leyrer, Terrell, James). The Board discussed this issue further. MOTION: Terrell moved the Park Board request the Memorial Review Board forward the completed application complete with alternative memorials; seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried.(Yes - Leyrer, Terrell, James, McWilliams; No - Ramey, Lott) Park Board Minutes - Oc, per 29, 2002 (Tuesday) Page 3 STAFF BUDGET PRESENTATIONS Park Board had expressed an interest in having staff review their priorities for the next fiscal year. Jemerson introduced staff. Tim Simon, Oak Park Garage Equipment Supervisor, spoke to the board explaining the Garage Section's responsibilities, including it is accountable for the fleet equipment, 32 large licensed units, 57 non-licensed large units and 378 small units used by all divisions. The fleet consists of equipment ranging from a 55 ft. ariel tower truck to a weedwhip. This section operates the supply crib. The goal of the section is always to increase preventative maintenance while decreasing non-scheduled work. However,unscheduled repairs will probably increase due to delaying equipment replacement. Simon distributed information detailing actual monies spent in the past five years for equipment and equipment repairs. The original requests for purchases each year have been much higher than is actually approved. Jemerson noted in a time of budget cuts, equipment and supply accounts typically are cut. Our challenge is to continue to get new equipment. Paul Dykema, Forestry Manager, noted some safety equipment purchases have been delayed. The crews have managed to get past the storms of 1997 and 1999 and are now planting more trees than are being cut down in a year. Tree species planted are extremely varied. James noted some of the new Board Members may want to spend some time with Dykema traveling throughout the city with an eye towards the trees. James noted there should be another meeting held at Oak Park Garage to understand working conditions. Jemerson noted the Council Budget Priorities do list the tree trimming cycle and a new facility at Oak Park Garage. However,these items take money. Discussion of the large wood pile at Crego Park followed. There is a program that allows private citizens to cut and remove wood at this site at no charge. Don Ballard, Golf/Washington Ice Manager, distributed a packet of historical information on expenses and revenues for the last five years from the 4 golf courses and the ice rink. The golf fund brings in about 1.5 million per year in user fees, green fees, cart rentals and merchandise sold. There are a variety of fees which try to make it as reasonable as possible for residents to use these courses. Fee increases are not recommended for FY04 to bring in more players. The first Tee Program should draw in more players eventually. Groesbeck will again have a concessionaire starting next year. This will allow more outings and group bookings. Washington Park has an outdoor ice rink and a dome. The dome was built in 1997 in conjunction with the Greater Lansing Hockey Association. GLAHA built it with a contractual agreement that GLAHA would rent the hours during the week and weekends at a reduced rate until the dome is paid off. When this is completed, all the hours will be the City of Lansing's to receive the money. This is the last year for the contract as it will be paid off in March 2003. This should increase revenues approximately $100,000. This should allow more learn to skate and learn to play hockey programs for Lansing residents. Dorothy Jones wondered if Lansing School Groups will be allowed to continue to use the facility during the day at no charge for field trips. Ballard noted this is a good program and he will recommend it continue. PROPOSAL FROM LANSING AREA FLYING ACES Gary Andrews, Chairman and President of the Lansing Area Flying Aces, along with Aaron Wallace, Park Board Minutes - Oct—,er 29, 2002 (Tuesday) Page 4 Field Marshall appeared before the board. The Aces had submitted a proposal to Council's Public Service Committee. The group is looking to develop a permanent model aircraft flying site within the City of Lansing with the preferred site being near the Hope Soccer Complex. They want to plan, design, finance and create a permanent model aircraft facility. During the next year the group wants to develop the partnership to create this facility. The County is ready to get involved and the group is seeking the Board's support. They have been using Elm Park, but the Hope Soccer site is suitable for events. The group asks that the Park Board support their efforts. Leyrer thinks this is great and very exciting. They want to continue using Elm Park as a temporary site until the dome is completed. GREEN ASH BORER Dykema explained the latest invading pest that is destroying Ash trees. Wayne County went from 1,000 tree removals per year to 3,000 per year due to this pest. It has moved on to six counties within one year so it is fast advancing. There is not a known pesticide that destroys the Green Ash Borer. About 10 percent of City of Lansing street trees are Ash and the borer is fatal to any Ash tree it infects. COUNCIL BUDGET PRIORITIES FY04 Each year the Council puts forward their priorities for the administration to consider in the development of budget. Jemerson will mail the Park Board the Department's response to these priorities for their review. PROGRAM CHANGES AND NEW PROGRAM REQUESTS Jemerson explained only one new program request can be forwarded for consideration. A list of possible new programs was presented to the Board (attached). Jemerson's priority is to continue to offer increased wages for contract staff to enable the department to be competitive in recruiting competent workers. MOTION: Lott moved the Board approve the new and expanded program requests with the priority being given to contractual wage increases for summer staff; seconded by Terrell. Motion carried. RANNEY PARK Jemerson explained that Ranney Park along with restrooms for Davis, Westside and Kircher are all out for bid with bids due back by November 4. Ranney is having the 8 light poles replaced with 6 light poles that will be more efficient on metal poles. The bleachers will also be replaced. Bob Every, coach of Lansing Community College Women's Softball, became concerned that the historical bleachers would be gone and seating capacity would be too low. The bleachers do not have historical significance, and they do not meet code. These bleachers were to be replaced with bleachers which would hold about 168 people. This would be sufficient for the parks programming. However,LCC and two or three other programs would require more seating. The bid also is requesting an alternative for more seating space. It is also designed to allow for bleachers to be brought in if there is a need. Park Board Minutes - Oc, er 29, 2002 (Tuesday) Page 5 MSU BOAT CLUB Terrell explained she and Jemerson met with Ron Mason, Karen Langeland, Steve Webster and Ann Beaujean at MSU. Ron Mason had asked for a copy of the minutes as to what was expected of MSU when the building was approved. Terrell had asked that the Board be presented a written program proposal by or at the December meeting. Discussion of programming deteriorated with MSU basically agreeing to have two crew members present for one day at the site, Jemerson was diplomatic, Terrell noted Jemerson was very diplomatic but she had plainly stated MSU had a commitment to the City of Lansing that is to be honored. MOTION: Terrell moved that 1)Ron Mason be reminded of MSU's commitment by providing him with a copy of the contract and the minutes that approved the building of the boathouse; 2) that MSU be requested to present to the Board a written program proposal at the December Board meeting and 3) that all commitments and program arrangements must be made prior to the spring use of MSU's crew club facility. Seconded by McWilliams. Motion carried. PORTABLE TOILETS Leyrer is still pleading for the neighborhood parks that have use but no restrooms that are functioning. She still would like the concept of portable toilets to be investigated for these parks as a temporary solution. INFORMATION The Board had also received information regarding Apple Butter at Fenner Nature Center, Boo at the Zoo and the Haunted Forest at Fenner. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully submitted, Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved December 18, 2002. (No November meeting) Attachment - Program Priority Changes &New Program Requests ATTACHMENT TO 10/29/02 PAR IOARD MINUTES PROGRAM PRIORITY CHANGES & NEW PROGRAM REQUESTS Forestry change Increase wood gringing $10,000 new program Full time inspector new program Seasonals to full time change Increase new tree spending new program Fenner/Potter-2 arborists Golf change Sycamore Learning Center Leisure Services change After school recreation new program Increase in contract wages new program TEA $ convert to FT clerk change T shirt purchases (double sided) change Youth Basketball Park Design new program Park map (new design and printing) Potter Park Zoo new program Full time horticultural ist Increase admissions fees for children from $1.00 to $1.50 Increase admissions fees for resident adults from $3.00 to$3.50 Increase admissions fees for non-resident adults from $5.00 to$5.50 PARK BOARD MINUTES December 18, 2002 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mary James, Ron Lott, Alfonso Mejorado, Claude Ramey and Monica Terrell MEMBERS ABSENT: Ruth Leyrer, Mel McWilliams, One Vacancy OTHERS PRESENT: Marjorie A. Moore, Suzanne Moore; Dorothy Jones, Moores Park Neighborhood Association; Brian Smith; Geneva Smith, Council Member; David Weiner, Executive Assistant to the Mayor; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation and staff including Tanya Moore and Dick Schaefer of Park Design, Gerry Brady, Zoo Manager, Mary Winegar, Leisure Services Manager, Steve Widder, Grounds and Landscape Maintenance Manager, and Carol Abbott, Office and Business Management/Cemetery Administration. CALL TO ORDER: 7:06 P.M., Scott Center, 125 W. Main Street Alfonso Mejorado, new at-large member, was welcomed to the Board. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Dorothy Jones was dismayed the MPNO was not notified of the swings that were recently placed in the park. Tanya Moore responded that she had notified Leila Rau, MPNO President, in April or May and assumed that Rau would bring it back to MPNO. When these swings were removed, and there were complaints, the department had committed to replacing them. Jones explained the new president was not aware of this. MINUTES MOTION: Lott moved the Park Board minutes of October 29, 2002, be approved as distributed; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. Other Department Board Minutes were placed on file. REQUEST TO NAME FILLEY PARK IN HONOR OF HAROLD MOORE This was tabled at the October meeting for more information which was provided in the mailed packet. The specific question was what would be acceptable alternative memorials. What was provided was two alternate names for the park. The Memorial Review Board has a 90-day time line to act on a request and refer a recommendation to Council for their action. Suzanne Moore, Harold Moore's daughter, spoke to the Board on her father's accomplishments including being a Councilmember, County Commissioner and on several other boards. When her father left Council, the practice had been to name something after the departing council member. Because there was already a Moores School, Moores Park and a Harold Street, it was dropped. Mr. Moore had been instrumental in acquiring Filley Park and had served on the Park Board. David Wiener was present as a representative of the Memorial Review Board. The Memorial Review Board felt that renaming a park was a large item that did require Park Board input prior Park Board Minutes - December 18, 2002 Page 2 to acting on this request. The MRB does want to honor citizens but not all requests are possible. Ramey noted he had known Moore for many years and felt he did great things for the City of Lansing. MOTION: Ramey moved the request to rename Filley Park to "Harold A. Moore Park" be approved; seconded by Lott. Terrell again asked about alternative memorials the family would consider. The application lists alternate names for the park, not alternative memorials such as plaques. Terrell's concern is relative to the finite number of parks. Motion carried. The Park Board's recommendation will be referred to the Memorial Review Board. PARK BOARD RECOMMENDATION ON COUNCIL PRIORITIES FOR FY 04 The Board had the responses provided by the Director to Council regarding their priorities for FY 04. Council had asked for an increase in tree trimming efforts, an increase in beautification efforts, improve downtown parks, maintain park amenities, increase safety in parks, Oak Park Garage facility, emphasize park improvements over park land acquisition. Staff has been working to improve all of these areas but many are related to finances and staff. MOTION: Lott moved to support the responses of the Director regarding Council Priorities for FY 04; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. DONATION OF PROPERTY BY NORTH CEMETERY Jemerson explained the property is adjacent to North Cemetery and the department is interested in having this property as a buffer between the cemetery and the community. The property is a downward slope and it is being investigated as an area to contain cremations only. Lott asked about upkeep and if this was in conflict with the Council priority. Staff explained this is a donation and the upkeep will be extremely low. MOTION: Lott moved the Park Board support the acceptance of the donation of property next to North Cemetery by accepting the draft resolution; seconded by Terrell. Motion carried. RIVER TRAIL SOUTH EXTENSION- Shubel Loop Development from Potter Park The Board reviewed and accepted the conceptual plan for the River Trail South at the October 2001 area. The Schubel Loop of the trail would start from the west side of Aurelius Road, where the trail runs along the Red Cedar River, connecting with the recently constructed bike path along Aurelius Road, then east through Shubel Park behind the cemetery office, then northwest through Shubel Park and finally crossing the Red Cedar River into Potter Park connecting with the Park Board Minutes - December 18, 2002 Page 3 existing trail. The department would like to apply for a MDNR Trust Fund grant for $750,000 to develop this section of the trail. The total project cost is approximately $1,000,000. The local match of$250,000 would come from the park millage. This is for the FY 04 budget. Discussion followed regarding the conceptual plan and future development in conjunction with Ingham County Parks and Recreation. The appropriateness of the loop was also discussed. MOTION: Lott moved the Park Board support the MDNR Trust Fund grant application for $750,000 to develop the Shubel Loop with the $250,000 match coming from the park millage in FY 04 as presented; seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. James left the meeting, and Lott chaired the meeting. STAFF BUDGET PRESENTATIONS Gerry Brady, Potter Park Zoo Manager, spoke to the Board explaining the Zoo Enterprise Fund and reviewing proposed capital improvement projects for the upcoming year. Discussion followed regarding the penguin exhibit, regionalization and the need for non-residents to pay for more of the zoo expenses. Carol Abbott, Administrative Aide, spoke to the Board regarding cemetery administration. The Board received a 5 year history of revenues and expenditures for the cemetery. Section P in Evergreen has been approved for sales. Due to staff shortages this was not plotted this year, but should be accomplished in the spring so sales may begin. The columbarium has had some panels replaced and seems to be ready to be sold again. Cremations are approximately 31% of all burials in Michigan at this time. Mary Winegar, Leisure Services Manager, spoke to the Board regarding this division and distributed some charts detailing various programs for several years such as sport team registrations, community center group use and attendance, summer playground attendance, Fenner Nature Center attendance, Turner Dodge attendance and school enrichment and aquatic classes. Winegar explained the 21"Century Learning Centers with the Lansing School District and the challenges ahead. She also explained the upcoming Web Registration. Lott asked about the drop-off in the number of softball teams. It is a national trend. Youth sports are growing and parents are more involved with their children. Steve Widder, Manager of Grounds and Landscape Maintenance, distributed a handout detailing responsibilities of the section, employees, vacancies and a five year history of expenditures. The vacancies and transfers within the department do impact maintenance and supervision. Overtime centers mainly around cemetery burials or maintenance prior to Memorial Day and ballfield maintenance during the summer. The remainder is basically on an emergency basis or a special event. This section receives approximately 43 seasonals. The river trail has grown and developments within the park system take more work. The aging infrastructure also takes more work but staff is not increasing. Equipment replacement is critical as it is not uncommon to have three of the five big mowers down at one time. The position vacancies in the Garage Section significantly impact repairs and what gets accomplished.. Snow removal equipment is also Park Board Minutes - December 18, 2002 Page 4 lacking. There are over 13 miles of sidewalks and there is one piece of motorized equipment that can go down the sidewalk. Widder also commended the Park Board for reviewing park properties and looking at various parcels such as the Glenburne lots. Traveling to vacant lots for mowing or sidewalk snow removal has a tremendous impact on the timeliness of maintenance. Some facilities are treated as trash dumping grounds such as McKinch, Davis or Biggie Munn Parks. These are labor intensive causing other areas to be delayed. He can see the use areas in various parks and also recommends reviewing the uses and users of each specific park. Criteria to evaluate each park should be developed. This does not necessarily mean parks should be disposed. Lott noted he shares the same concerns of trying to do more with less. Terrell asked for any input from the department regarding areas that may be under-utilized or perhaps need changes in mowing patterns or creating a natural area. Mejorado commented he been involved with game that the teams showed up for but the field was not ready and there was no umpire. Widder explained the Grounds and Maintenance staff tries to communicate with the Sports staff regarding field conditions so rainouts can be placed on the sports rainout phone line. Jemerson noted he has spoken with all staff regarding their presentations, and he also stressed reviewing various properties which are not dedicated park land. This will enable staff to spend their time on parks which truly serve the citizens of the City of Lansing instead of the properties such as Glenburne. BASE BUDGET- PARKS AND RECREATION FY 04 Jemerson explained this is the first draft of the budget and the probability of it changing is very high. Our recommended base budget is $6.9 million and last year it was $6.8 million. This is very much a continuation budget. Jemerson noted target figures will be given based on projected revenues and perhaps those will be available at the next meeting. James asked if an alternate reduction budget was included. Jemerson explained that currently we have had a 6 percent cut. After January, there may be another cut in this year's budget. Equipment, supplies and conferences have been cut but this cannot continue. As an example, there are three aerial towers that are used to trim trees and two of the three were sidelined this week due to electrical problems. Our fleet is aging. This will continue to happen and there is much equipment that is on the verge of falling apart. James would encourage Jemerson to bring the possible plan for cutting the budget along with the base budget. James suggested a visible item be recommended for reduction as this is the reality. Jemerson explained the budget before the Board is turned in to Finance as the Department's recommendation. Finance takes the City's budget and reviews estimated revenues to see if there are revenues to support the total requests. If there are not estimated revenues to support this request, we will be asked to cut back. Until the target amount is given, an alternate budget will not be prepared. MOTION: Ramey moved the base budget for FY 04 be tabled until January, seconded by Lott. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes - December 18, 2002 Page 5 CIP/MILLAGE PROJECTS FY 04 Tanya Moore and Dick Schaefer, Landscape Architects, gave a presentation on the CIP/Millage budget. CIP stands for Capital Improvement Project which is typically anything over $15,000. The presentation was given in priority order with the higher priority being safety, health and welfare items. Discussion followed on various items including changes proposed for Sycamore Golf Course due to the First Tee Program and the flooding problem and the cost of maintaining and constructing this facility. The Board also suggested using $56,000 as a community based special interest challenge grant match not tied to a specific project rather than as a specific item tied to a bike park challenge match. This would encourage neighborhoods to take an interest. The purpose of the millage was discussed with James noting the kids camps should not be included in the park millage as these camps are operational. MOTION: Ramey moved to table the CIP/Millage Projects until the January meeting; seconded by Lott. Motion carried. LETTER FROM BOARD TO MSU MOTION: Terrell moved the Board approve the draft of the letter with changes so the presentation can be made at the January meeting; seconded by Lott. Motion carried. UPDATES Jemerson updated the Board on Ranney Park bleachers and lighting. Due to input at Council Committee meetings the facility will now have seating for 1,000. Ramey expressed surprise as the seats were not filled. The Board was also updated on the Groesbeck Beer and Wine Concession, Gier Park Renovations/BMX, Restroom Facility Renovations at Westside, Bancroft, Davis and Kircher, First Tee and the Park Board vacancy. INFORMATION Information had been sent to the Board including the Friends of Cooley Gardens Newsletter for Fall and also regarding a special ceremony due to the Wolverine Development Land Donation. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully submitted by: Cj - � �-�z-z� � Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved 1/15/03.