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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005 Park Board Minutes PARK BOARD MINUTES January 12, 2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ron Lott, Rick Kibbey, Ruth Leyrer, Patrick Murray, Melvin McWilliams, Claude Ramey MEMBERS ABSENT: Alfonso Mejorado (excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Brian Smith; Tanya Moore, Landscape Architect, and Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M., Foster Community Center =r; ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA- Evaluation is being prepared. " E STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS f 71 Brian Smith asked about the renewal of the park millage. Jemerson explained a comm�4ee.will be formed to work on the campaign to renew this millage. Jemerson will be making contacts to a'i�range a committee. UPDATES BY THE DIRECTOR The First Tee Project at Sycamore Golf Course has made progress. The course is showing improvement. The grades are very close. There are still 14 trees that will be removed. Hopefully the cold weather will freeze the ground enough that the grading can continue. Construction of the building will begin in the spring. (Mel McWilliams arrived at 7:13 p.m. Rick Kibbey arrived at 7:14 p.m.) There will be another meeting in a month or so. The Board will be informed of the date of the meeting. There is an area that is designated as a natural,wetland area on the site. The three practice tees for the first tee program will be high so flooding will be minimized. Kibbey expressed concern that in places the water has progressed over the fabric fencing. Durant Arch is completed and the rededication and relighting will be January 25th in the evening. The Friends of Durant Park will be holding a reception at 7:00 p.m. at Omas Cafe. After the speeches, the group will proceed to the park to turn on the arch. Turner-Dodge Porch is still in progress. Potter Park Otter and Fox Exhibit-The plans and final drawings are being reviewed by the zoo staff. There is currently an otter and fox exhibit located in the central portion of the zoo. These will be moved next to the wolves. This will be a North American Area. Over the past three years a portion of park millage has been set aside to match monies donated from the Glassen Foundation. The project will be bid shortly. Friends of Durant Park and Friends of Cooley Gardens are both being recognized by the Michigan Recreation and Park Association for their outstanding efforts. Park Board Minutes - January 12, 2005 Page 2 PARK BOARD MINUTES Jemerson distributed corrections to the November 10,2004,minutes that had been discovered. The Board questioned various portions of the minutes. There was discussion over the original motion. The Board was concerned that the changes they had requested in the amendment(removing Forestry Software and adding Davis Parking Lot and St. Joe Park Football field) were not in the original motion. Quentin Park tennis courts were the item designated by the department for$100,000. The entire revised motion will be added into the minutes so it can be read in one section. MOTION: McWilliams moved to table the November 10, 2004, board minutes until the February meeting. Seconded by Murray. Motion carried. FIVE YEAR PLAN 2006-2010 The Five Year Plan Draft had been distributed to the Board for their review. The Action Plan is the focus of the plan. Other sections are required informational sections, but the action plan is the direction the department will take in the next five years. Jemerson explained it is very important to include any action that we may take in the next five years. Discussion followed on the grant supported projects. Tanya Moore,Landscape Architect,and Murdock Jemerson,Director,discussed various sections. Jemerson explained that this document must be reviewed and approved by the Park Board,the Planning Commission and Council. The Five Year Plan must be approved by April I to meet the next grant deadline. Lott suggested tentative approval in concept be made. Changes can be made throughout the review process. Consulting firm selection was discussed in depth. Use of architectural and engineering firms were discussed. Lott noted the Introductory portion had terrific pictures and gave a good overview of where the department has been and how it has been working with groups. Kibbey expressed concern over the continued review and evaluation of non-dedicated land holdings for possible disposal including the sites listed in the plan for sale. He is concerned this may send the wrong message to voters. Kibbey also noted with Emerald Ash Borer taking a toll on our trees,now is the time to have an up-to-date data base for our trees. It does not have to be a$150,000 data base but it is time to modernize. Moore noted it did need to be added back to the FY07 CIP. Kibbey noted EAB treatment and replacement of trees needs to be addressed. Possibly a program to include plantings along the river trail such as adopt-a-park could be investigated. Jemerson noted Adopt-a- river should be included in the plan with credit going to the Board of Water and Light for their help. Possibilities for Crego are exciting. He wondered about the Lime Pit as an addition. The Oak Park Garage replacement is on hold. Dykema will contact Kibbey to discuss tree nurseries. McWilliams inquired about in-holdings. These are basically properties that are surrounded on three sides by parkland. Murray inquired about adding emergency phones (dial 911) along the river trail. Park Board Minutes -January 12, 2005 Page 3 MOTION: McWilliams moved the Board approve the Parks and Recreation Five Year Plan 2006-2010 as in concept as prepared with minor adjustments to include the comments made this evening and that it be forwarded to the Planning Board and Mayor. Seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. INFORMATION ITEMS The Winter Activities guide is available and the Daddy/Daughter and Mother/Son Valentine Dance will take place February 9 at the Lansing Center. The Inventory of Park, Recreation, Waterfront and Cemetery Properties was distributed for the Board's information. Adjourned. Respectfully submitted: _17 , Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved February 9, 2005. PARK BOARD MINUTES February 9, 2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ron Lott, Rick Kibbey, Patrick Murray, Melvin McWilliams, Claude Ramey MEMBERS ABSENT: Alfonso Mejorado (excused), Ruth Leyrer(excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Darnell Oldham, Sr.,John Pollard,Brian Smith;and Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:03P.M., Letts Community Center ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA — Additions include New Business — Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Issues, MDNR & MDOT Grant Application for River Trail [Hawk Island (Cavanaugh Road) to Maguire Park] STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Brian Smith asked if the department was aware of Ingham County Parks Director wishing to have a Board Member removed from their Board. Murdock Jemerson had no information on this. Darnell Oldham, Sr.,commented regarding the southend community center. He asked why there is no southend community center and where the money that was set aside has went. He figures $250,000 from one mill,$1,000,000 from sale of the civic center and also a$750,000 DNR bond grant. He understood that grant monies are project specific. He asked what has happened to the tax monies after a 14 year period of time and also questioned why the southside community center is not in the five year plan. John Pollard noted he was Park Board member when the first millage passed. He also wondered about funds from sale of the Civic Center going toward a southend center and veterans' memorial. Pollard noted there is now 8.2 miles of infrastructure that must be maintained. If an addition is made to anything, it will cost more in the long run for maintenance and utilities. Pollard feels that language should be in the millage to dedicate 50 percent to a southend eeR4e,.maintenance and repair. He said things are all going to capital improvements but the words in the original millage said it would go to improvements,rehabilitations,repairs,renovations,replacements,upgrades,enhancements,handicapper accessibility. He will fight tooth and nail to take this millage down and he has time to do it. He will let people know$600,000 has been spent on bathrooms. He will put signs out and let the games begin. He suggests people talk with him and Darnell. Lott thanked Pollard for his ideas and input. PARK BOARD MINUTES November 10, 2004 Park Board Minutes - The Board had not met in December and had made corrections at the January meeting asking that the minutes be brought back in February for final approval. MOTION: McWilliams moved the minutes of November 10, 2004 be approved as amended; seconded by Kibbey. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes—February 9, 2005 Page 2 January 12, 2005 Park Board Minutes - The Board reviewed the minutes. MOTION: McWilliams moved the minutes of January 12, 2005 be approved as submitted; seconded by Murray. Motion carried. The Board also received minutes from the Potter Park Zoological Society. PARKS AND RECREATION MILLAGE RENEWAL The millage is due for renewal in the August 2005 election. Included in the Park Board packet was information on a past millages including editorials,informational literature from 2000 vote,and a letter from Friends of Lansing Parks. Also included was a draft resolution to enable this item to be placed on the August 2005 ballot. Kibbey asked about the southside community center. Jemerson explained that the southside center was listed on campaign material for the first millage proposal question in 1995. It listed projects that needed immediate attention. The south end community center was listed there. A grant was never applied for to use toward the southside community center. All the grant schedules are possible grant schedules. In the current proposed five year plan there are two schedules and one is a schedule that lists projects that we anticipate may qualify for grants. This is a wish list. The other list is a list of capital improvement projects (CI)) we will work on in the next fiscal year. Whenever the MDNRTF or DNR Bond Grant(which has ended)is listed,it just shows what we would like to do. As far as funding issues for a southside center(sale of the Civic Center and millage funding)a response to Mr. Oldham is being prepared by the Mayor's Office. Dave Wiener,Executive Assistant to the Mayor, and Greg Koessel,Internal Auditor, are both working on this issue. As far as the south end community center being a priority,it was a priority at one time. An engineering firm had been hired to work with a task force on this center. Various needs in a facility were discussed and drawn. Then when the issue of the building on Washington being vacated by the military surfaced, this project was put on hold. The thought was to put the dollars on hold to retro fit this facility rather than building a new facility. The second item was discussion of the Boys and Girls Club being expanded. Both of those items put the idea of anew facility on the back burner. This is just a quick overview. Since that time,this is the first that we have had persons voice the need for a southside community center. The Board discussed the need to place the park millage on the August 2005 ballot but had reservations regarding the ballot language. Ron Lott and Rick Kibbey will work on a letter to get information out to the public for input on ballot language and to inform the public of the millage. They will also contact some of the groups to resurrect a Friends of the Parks Group. MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND THREAT Trust Fund is in Jeopardy because the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that the State of Michigan did not have the right to sell property and keep the oil and mineral rights. If this is upheld by the Michigan Supreme Court the MDNR may have to repay all the monies to the persons who purchased the land but did not get the oil and mineral rights. This decision has the potential to destroy the state's ability to continue to assist local units of government throughout the state to purchase park and conservation lands and to develop park facilities. Michigan Recreation and Park Association is seeking the support Park Board Minutes—February 9, 2005 Page 3 for an amicus brief to request the Michigan Supreme Court to resolve this lawsuit(Comben vs. State of Michigan). A draft letter of support was presented to the Board. MOTION: Kibbey moved the Park Board approve this letter and forward it to the Michigan United Conservation Clubs; seconded by Murray. Motion carried. MDOT/MDNR GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE RIVER TRAIL FROM HAWK ISLAND COUNTY PARK(CAVANAUGH RD.) TO MAGUIRE PARK This project was discussed and approved by the Board during the 2006 proposed CIP budget request. This would develop River Trail South from Hawk Island County Park(Cavanaugh Road)to Maguire Park. It would involve a local match of$365,000,MDNR Trust Fund Grant of$426,500 and an MDOT TEA-21 Grant of$534,412. MOTION: Kibbey moved the Board support this application and forward this to the Mayor and Council for approval; seconded by Murray. Motion carried. PARK BOARD EVALUATION Leyrer has completed the draft but was not able to attend this meeting. It will be available at the March meeting. UPDATES The First Tee project at Sycamore will require some remediation due to the run-off due to the snow melt and rain. Kibbey wondered if this would be paid for from the contractor's bond. INFORMATION The Board received information about several upcoming meetings for Sycamore Golf Course/First Tee Program,Special Ceremony at Council for Friends of Cooley Gardens and Friends of Durant Park,and a Friends of Cooley Gardens Newsletter. Respectfully submitted C � Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved March 9, 2005. AK BOARD AGENDA March 9, 2005 BOARD MEMBERS: Ron Lott, Rick Kibbey, Ruth Leyrer, Melvin McWilliams, Alfonso Mejorado, Patrick Murray, Claude Ramey, Brian Smith CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M., Gier Community Center, 2400 Hall St. I. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA II. 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. III. BOARD MEETING MINUTES A. February 9, 2005 Park Board Minutes B. Other Departmental Board Minutes IV. NEW BUSINESS A. Presentation by The Garden Project B. Take Public Comment on MDNR&MDOT Grant Application for River Trail- Hawk Island(Cavanaugh Rd.) To Maguire Park V. OLD BUSINESS A. Park Board Evaluation B. Parks & Recreation Millage Renewal 1. Southside Community Center Funds History provided by Internal Audit VI. UPDATES A. Construction Projects (The First Tee, Turner-Dodge Front Porch Renovation, Potter Park Zoo Otter Exhibit) B. Parks and Recreation 5 Year Plan 2006-2010 1. Planning Board Action 2. Public Hearing @ Council,March 7 @ 7:00 p.m. 3. Public Meeting @ Foster Center, March 8 @ 6:30 p.m. 4. Public Meeting @ Gardner Middle School, March 15 @ 6:30 p.m. VII. CORRESPONDENCE VIII. INFORMATION A. Maple Syrup Festival @ Fenner Nature Center 3/19 & 3/20, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. B. Friends of Fenner February 2005 Newsletter C. Turner-Dodge House Annual Report to the Friends of Turner-Dodge 2004 IX. REMARKS BY BOARD MEMBERS Bold- requires board action PARK BOARD MINUTES March 9, 2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ron Lott, Rick Kibbey, Ruth Leyrer, Patrick Murray, Melvin:-: McWilliams, Claude Ramey, Brian Smith,Alfonso Mejorado MEMBERS ABSENT: ^'fens^ M er-ade (exeused) none OTHERS PRESENT: Gary Andrews, Model Aerodrome; Pete Bosheff, LASBRF; Sue Eareckson, Friends of Bancroft Park; Bob Kirkby, Clifford Park Community Gardens; Darnell Oldham, Sr., Churchill Downs; Monica Terrell,Friends of Greater Lansing Dog Parks;John Pollard;Joan Bauer, Councilmember;Martin Riel,Interim Director of Management Services; Tanya Moore,Landscape Architect,and Murdock Jemerson,Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:03P.M., Gier Community Center Brian Smith was welcomed to the Board as a new member. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA — Additions include OLD BUSINESS — C. CIP Revision STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Monica Terrell presented a 2004 review of the Friends of Greater Lansing Dog Parks activities. She submitted the 2004 Year in Review highlighting the actions of the group, PARK BOARD MINUTES February 9, 2005 Park Board Minutes MOTION: Kibbey moved the minutes of February 9, 2005, be approved with a statement in John Pollard's comments being changed from "...dedicate 50 percent to a southend center" to "...dedicate 50 percent to maintenance and repair." Seconded by Murray. Motion carried. The Board also received minutes from the Friends of Turner-Dodge House and Scott Center Advisory Board. THE GARDEN PROJECT: Joan Bauer and Bob Kirkby representing The Garden Project distributed information on a gardening workshop for youth, a list of the 2002 Garden Project Gardens, a 2004 report of activities and an explanation of the program. The Garden Project is dedicated to local efforts to develop a healthier food system in the Greater Lansing Area. They do this by gardening,gleaning and community development. The group is hoping to expand their project into Poxson, Ormond, Everett, Wainwright and Bancroft Parks. Jemerson noted this program is Creating Community through People,Parks and Programs (the title of the Five Year Plan). Park Board Minutes—March 2005 Page 2 PUBLIC COMMENT ON MDNR& MDOT GRANT APPLICATION FOR RIVER TRIAL— HAWK ISLAND (CAVANAUGH ROAD) TO MAGUIRE PARK Tanya Moore, Landscape Architect, explained the Board had approved this grant application at the February meeting. Moore displayed a map of the proposed area, explained other grants that have been approved and how this would fit in. As part of the grant application,a public meeting is required. This is part of that process. McWilliams noted he supports the extension of the trail,but as the trail expands,he wonders what our ability to maintain the future and current trail will be. Jemerson explained that Ingham County Parks would be contributing to maintenance and security of much of the new portion. Jemerson explained there is a written agreement for maintenance of some portions of the trail and when the trail is increased, the agreement will be amended to include these areas. Kibbey is a member of the Sierra Club and has been approached by several members who have concerns about a trail by Sycamore Creek and Sycamore Golf Course. They had requested the trail be put closer to Sunnyside or using higher ground. Kibbey had raised this with Jemerson and was satisfied with the process. However, he is concerned that we will be able to maintain a structure in this area with flooding, trees and stumps going down the river, ice breakage, etc Jemerson explained there are a number of trails that traverse through areas with worse conditions. This is a wetland area and the trail designer will be experienced in this type of trail. We do recognize that even today there are areas when the trail floods. The majority of the uses are in the summer when the trail dry. Murray wondered if the grant application included a trail route. Jemerson explained there is a detailed site drawing, which Moore showed to the Board. Kibbey asked if the route could be altered in the design process. Jemerson noted that this is the plan that has been proposed to the DNR many times. Alternate routes have been investigated. One proposal was to go behind the homes on Sunnyside. This was not acceptable to the neighbors on Sunnyside. Pete Bosheff asked if there has been a safety audit on the trail. He feels there are some significant safety issues, such as posts that are in the line of travel if a person is on a bike or roller blades and misses a curve. He also noted the area is an area fish pass through to spawn. Darnell Oldham, Sr.,has used and enjoyed the trail. He is concerned that LPD resources will be used on the trail and questioned if putting things in the floodplain is good use of the tax funding. Jemerson explained that typically happens is LPD will define a two week period where they will give an area special attention. Brian Smith asked if Ingham County would send an animal control officer to handle this situation as they are in charge of animals. Jemerson noted that was a good suggestion. Jemerson noted the meeting he was at last night he explained that this trail is considered regional and it will extend beyond the boundaries of Lansing. The Lansing River Trail is the hub of the section. There is an end for the city's portion heading south. It is planned to end at Hope Soccer Complex. John Pollard asked how far this extension would take the trail. It will add approximately 1.8 miles. He does not feel this is a trail as it is asphalt and boardwalk. This all requires maintenance. This portion of Park Board Minutes—March 2005 Page 3 the trail is from Cavanaugh to Maguire Park. He questioned the numbers that are given for the cost of river trail maintenance. He also noted some items are funded year after year. Other items are not. PARK BOARD EVALUATION Ruth Leyrer distributed the Park Board's draft evaluation for fiscal year July 1, 2003 through June 30, 2004. Lott asked that the Board review this share concerns with Lott. MOTION: McWilliams moved that the Park Board evaluation be received,adopted and forwarded to the Council through the Mayor subject to further minor amendments submitted through the president; Seconded by Ramey. Motion carried. PARKS AND RECREATION MILLAGE RENEWAL Lott distributed a letter he has drafted to send to the Lansing State Journal regarding their editorial. He asked for input from the board. He also distributed a draft motion for a revision to the Five Year Plan. He also asked that the Board consider the name of the Board (Park or Parks) at some future meeting. Kibbey has attended the hearings on the Five Year Plan. The public consistently asks about the dollars spent on neighborhood parks, preventive, replacement, maintenance and new facilities. Kibbey requested a breakout be sent to Council to explain the breakdown including millage and general fund monies. He wondered what the policy has been and will be as far as neighborhood parks and millage. He also asked where Forestry is in the millage request. The emerald ash borer will devastate City of Lansing trees. Also the Board's commitment to a southside community center needs to be included. MOTION: Kibbey moved that(1)the Lansing Park Board recommends to the Mayor that he direct the City Attorney to draft ballot language to renew a levy of one mill($1.00 per$1,000) for five years commencing July 1, 2006 on all taxable real property in the City of Lansing. Kibbey also moved a clarifying letter be sent with this motion highlighting (a) the breakout between neighborhood park money versus regional facility money,(b)the policy on forestry relative to the emerald ash borer and(c) a clear commitment be made to the southside community center. Seconded by Murray. Pollard commented the wording"for the purpose of operating the City's Parks and Recreation System" is a problem. The millage is for repair and maintenance and if at least 50 percent of the millage is not dedicated to repair and maintenance, he will "bring it (the millage) down." Lott clarified again that the actual projects that the funding is used for each year are reviewed and recommended by the Park Board. The list speaks to safety issues, bleacher replacement, replacing playground equipment, meeting needs where there are very popular programs that have strained our facilities and equipment. McWilliams has some problems with the two part motion. He would like to have it separated so more discussion can take place. Joan Bauer commented the millage has always been promoted as not being used as an operating fund for parks and that it would be used for things above and beyond general operating. Bauer notes even if Park Board Minutes—March >, 2005 Page 4 the language is the same,the Park Board should be clear on the intent. A small portion of the millage is used to fund a portion of the Kids Camps. This has been a problem at Council because it doesn't fit with the rest of the uses. Kibbey noted the reason he included the second portion of the motion was several Council people had noted that the Park Board should put their intent. Is it the Board's intent to continue to use these funds for repair and maintenance items and facility repairs. Gary Andrews asked if the previously mentioned amendments to the master plan were included in this millage. If they are being included,he wants to make comments. Lott noted the amendments would be things that were mentioned at the public hearings that are not specifically mentioned in the five year plan. Darnell Oldham Sr. noted there is still another forum on March 15. He asked what the breakdown of monies spent from 1990 to date for projects on the southside of Lansing. He is concerned that the southside center will again be lost in the political dealings. If there is no assurance about a southside center, he will try to raise the citizens of the southside to protest. Pete Bosheff asked what was being voted on and it was explained the vote will be on if a millage should be asked for, the amount of the millage and the term of the millage. He doesn't feel the discussion should center on the correct word but rather the true intent of the millage. Sue Eareckson stated it was clear in the language from 15 years ago the ballot language was for operations but the information sheet went on to say the intent was for the money to be used exclusively for construction or rehabilitation. Operating funds will be from the general fund. As it is not on the ballot, there is nothing to enforce the millage being used for construction and rehabilitation. Pollard noted the Park Board is advisory. The current millage wording has not kept the funds from being used for operations. Pollard said the skate park was not included in the last 5 year plan and it was delayed years while it was included. Bosheff corrected that by the skatepark not being in the five year plan, it was ineligible for DNR grants. Lott noted the skatepark was a community issue that had a lot of support. The plan and the millage are set up to allow for flexibility; as things change with new ideas or problems that must be addressed,the plan can be amended and millage priorities change. Murray requested the wording be forwarded to the current city attorney and for advice as to what language would limit the use of the millage funds so it will not be used for operating funds. Kibbey withdrew his original motion. MOTION: Kibbey moved that the Lansing Park Board recommend to the Mayor that he direct the City Attorney to draft ballot language to renew a levy of one mill($1.00 per$1,000)for five years commencing July 1, 2006 on all taxable real property in the City of Lansing. The intent of the Park Board is that the money from the millage is to be used exclusively for the development, construction and rehabilitation of parks and recreation facilities. Operating funds will be from the general fund. Seconded by Murray. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes—March 7, 2005 Page 5 CIP REVISION The comments received at public meetings regarding the five year plan thus far are asking for an increase in the city-wide repair and maintenance. Over the past few years, $50,000 was set aside for city-wide repair and maintenance projects in the parks. In the original CIP FY06 schedule listed $15,000 with$35,000 carried forward to make a total of$50,000. A revised CIP list was proposed to the Board reflecting an increase in the City Wide Repair and Maintenance line item from$15,000 to $100,000 and a reduction for the Sycamore Park Golf Course Project from$300,000 to$210,000. The revised recommendation was presented to the Board. Smith clarified the original request. MOTION: Murray moved that the FY06 Capital Improvement Project Schedule be revised to reflect an increase in the City Wide Repair and Maintenance line item from$15,000 to $100,000 and the Sycamore Park Golf Course Project be reduced from $300,000 to $210,000. The Board recommends the Mayor forward the revised schedule of projects to Lansing City Council as part of its FY05 budget process for adoption. Seconded by Ramey. McWilliams asked for further info on the reasoning for changing the request from the historic amount to the larger figure and also questioned the change in the priority ordering. Friendly amendment to the motion to take the$40,000 identified for Kids Camps out of the FY06 CIP Schedule which lists millage items and pay for the Kids Camps out of general fund monies. The $40,000 can be used for an item that would fit the intent of the millage that is currently funded from the general fund. Motion carried. Gary Andrews spoke to the Board on the regarding the Flying Aces request for an aerodrome being omitted from the Five Year Plan. He noted the group had asked their proposal be included in the plan. He attended the meeting last night and discovered their"dream has become an oversight." He would like the language included so another group does not have to experience five or ten years of delays. He requested it be included or he will work against the department. Andrews spoke several times regarding the"oversight." Lott assured him the Flying Aces and their request for the Lansing Model Aerodrome was noted for inclusion in the plan. Jemerson again explained that the entire purpose of the public forums and public hearings was to get input from the public. The Lansing Area Skate,Bike and Recreation Foundation had been omitted. It was an oversight that is being corrected. The Flying Aces was also an oversight. We are compiling a list of the revisions as we did with Planning Committee. Council will get a list of revisions and additions that have come out of this plan with the recommendations. The Flying Aces proposed location for the aerodrome is on an area that is City land but also falls under an agreement between the City of Lansing and Ingham County. The paragraph could indicate the desires of the group to move but a description of the funding for a project will not be included. The DNR has changed the requirements for recreation plans. If a project is referred to as a possible future project it does not have to appear on the funding chart. The DNR does recognize needs change. Park Board Minutes—Mare.. .), 2005 Page 6 Oldham asks that the southside community center be added to the grant list. Jemerson explained the southside center request is being expanded upon in the plan. However, it cannot be included in the grant request as there is no DNR grant funding to build a community center facility. The current funding sources are the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and Fisheries Division. Joan Bauer noted the Park Board had been very interesting. She noted the Public Services Committee of Council normally does not hold public forums on the five year plan. However, they felt it was so important to get feedback on the plan, they did schedule forums in the community. She has talked to several people in the southside whose priority is their neighborhood parks. She realizes the huge diversity of needs the public brings. The Park Board makes tough decision to make the city parks they best they can be. Sue Eareckson spoke saying she was pleased to see Bancroft Park included and the mention of the Esker and the natural areas. The community is committed to serving the entire park. If a there comes a plan to infringe on that park, she hopes the neighborhood would be consulted. Pete Bosheff commented Bancroft has an awesome urban forest and the parks with those features should be noted. He also requested special needs and adaptive sports be investigated. There are many opportunities available in other communities. He also mentioned investigating Olympic sports being encouraged in the parks such as sand volleyball,fastpitch,skate boarding, soccer, etc. He also wants to see a separate teaching skatepark facility. LASBRF could fundraise for it. South Washington is not a good location for a skate/bike park as it is hidden. Satellite parks would be a good addition. Jemerson noted the last time he had met with Bosheff and the freestyler bicyclists, Washington was the located they desired and that is why it has been moved forward. Jemerson noted funding could be put in place with the location discussed again. Brian Smith wanted to make sure that the money from the Ranney trust Fund is not in jeopardy. INFORMATION The Board was mailed information on Fenner Nature Center's Maple Syrup Festival March 19 and 20. The Friends of Fenner February Newsletter and the Turner-Dodge House Annual Report were mailed to the Board in their information packets. Meeting adjourned @ 10:05 p.m. l Respectfully submitted k.e 6ZV, c` . Lee Ann Foreback, Park Board Secretary Approved 4/13/05 PARK BOARD MINUTES April 13, 2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ron Lott(left early),Rick Kibbey,Ruth Le3t5�3fi (?k`Miirray,*.Melvin McWilliams (arrived late), Claude Ramey, Briap I it s `( CLEP�i .its+tit J i` MEMBERS EXCUSED: Ruth Leyrer, Al Mejorado OTHERS PRESENT: Emily Horne; Joan Bauer, Councilmember; and Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:12P.M., Letts Community Center, 1220 W. Kalamazoo ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA—Update by Ron Lott on Park Millage Meetings STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS -None PARK BOARD MINUTES March 9,2005 Park Board Minutes MOTION: Moved by Murray that the March 9,2005 minutes be approved as distributed;seconded by Kibbey. (Correction made as Al Mejorado was in attendance at March meeting.) Motion carried. The Board also received minutes from the Foster Advisory Board, Gier Advisory Board, Friends of Fenner, and Friends of Turner-Dodge House. PARK MILLAGE UPDATE Lott explained to the Board that there had been some meetings and hearings on the Five Year Master Plan, the budget and park millage. Lott appreciated the attendance of Brian Smith, Rick Kibbey, Pat Murray and Al Mejorado at one or more of the meetings. There was good input from the community. There was a lot of comment regarding a south side community center. He is part of a committee Sandy Allen has put together regarding how a community center can be established in the southend during these tough economic times. The same night there was a millage planning committee meeting and the Friends of Turner-Dodge had three people in attendance. The next meeting is Tuesday,April 19 at 6:30 at Foster. Lott also explained that at the first millage planning meeting discussions occurred regarding fundraising, requirements in terms of financial records,and what would be appropriate uses for the millage monies. There were offers of assistance. He asked if there were other board members who would like to participate. He also attended a south Lansing physical environment committee. Emily Horne was in attendance. This group confirmed the suspicion that if millage funding is used to fund items that are cut from the general fund, voters will be less likely to vote positively. Park Board Minutes —April 13, 2005 Page 2 Murdock Jemerson distributed handouts that are being distributed at the public forums on the budget including a survey that is being distributed. He also distributed an Analysis of Budgets and Actual Expenditures and discussion followed on the Parks and Recreation Budget. This document notes the department will have a 14.57 decrease from the past year. Jemerson explained budget development has been an ongoing process and changes are happening daily. To help bridge the difference with the budget cuts, approximately $750,000 from millage will be taken for general fund expenses. Other reductions include $500,000 from Golf subsidy and$200,000 from Zoo subsidy. Projects deleted to meet these goals include Hunter Park Project $200,000, Gier Park Gym Expansion $300,000, Foster Park Restroom Renovation$150,000. This is the Administration's proposal. Also included in the packet is the listing of the projects from 1992 to 2005 that have been funded with the park millage. This shows that the millage has been spent in the neighborhoods and has been used for maintenance and repair. There are still many persons who are concerned about money being taken from one project to pay for another such as the funds from the sale of the civic center. The perception is the millage money is being used to cover special projects that Councilor Mayor prefer. Jemerson also explained that the ballot language is being looked at by the Law Department so the millage will go for operating and CIP. Kibbey discussed that this is not the way to protect a millage. He realizes cuts need to be made, but using the millage for operations is not the way. Joan Bauer related people are coming to the budget hearings saying they do not want the river trail expanded but that they do want their neighborhood parks maintained and updated. There is a feeling that the money should be spent to repair things that are used now. What constitutes a"repair"must be addressed. Lott agreed that at some meetings there is great support for the trail and at others there isn't. Kibbey noted one person will speak and say fix things,don't build things,but another will say build a southside community center. Melvin McWilliams arrived and was updated on the proposed ballot language. Lott recommended the Board send a letter expressing the concerns about the proposed cuts,adjustments and shifting the funding sources to the millage as it is unfairly penalizing the parks program and is jeopardizing the passage of the millage in August. These actions will cause negative results that will cause greater,long-lasting concerns within a year. Some of the proposed items such as utilities do not seem like a proper use of millage while others could be accommodated. The Board requested Murdock Jemerson arrange a meeting between the Mayor's Office and some Park Board representatives. Bauer did note the administration is getting bombarded with differing comments -from the public. MOTION: Murray moved the Board have representatives meet with the administration to ensure they are aware of the Board's concerns and the potential difficulty problems for the millage. Seconded by Kibbey. Motion carried. After a comment regarding increases in another department, Jemerson did explain that increases are Park Board Minutes—April 13, 2005 Page 3 shown in many budgets because fringe benefits are now being included Lott appreciated Jemerson's efforts and Bauer's attending these meetings to remain informed and provide input. He did note a special meeting might become necessary. He doesn't want to wait until the budget is finalized to take action. Lott left the meeting and Kibbey chaired the remainder of the meeting. Kibbey noted that the Board understands that cuts must be made and the Board can step up to the challenge. Bauer did note that the Board is always welcome at Public Services meeting especially when the millage language is discussed. Jemerson did invite the Public Service Committee through Joan Bauer to visit the Sycamore First Tee Project as it is making progress Kibbey asked that a draft of the meaning of operating and repair and maintenance be compiled. Joan Bauer returned to the public meeting on the budget forum. . Emily Horne asked if something would be included for a southside community center. She did go back to the prior criteria from 1993. Kibbey noted a specific location must be addressed and including if a new or used building will be needed and the specific targeted population. She did note that the vision for the next five years should include the upkeep and expansion of the park system. UPDATES The First Tee is visibly shaping up. A meeting will DEQ will take place to discuss the circumstances at the site. Turner Dodge Front Porch Renovation—it should be sealed and painted this spring. Potter Park Zoo Otter and Fox Exhibit—bids will be in next week. Hopefully construction will begin 2 to 3 weeks after that time.The final exhibit will allow visitors to see the animals swimming underwater with a side view through Plexiglas. The Parks and Recreation 5 year Plan 2005-2010 passed Council on March 28 and the plan was submitted to the MDNR. The Plan has been approved by the MDNR. CORRESPONDENCE A letter was received from LASBRF regarding covered basketball courts value. A letter from Friends of Cooley Gardens was also received noting the plant sale will be held Saturday, May 21. INFORMATION Information was mailed with the Board's packet that included a list of grants received for Parks and Recreation facilities since 1989. Also the meeting dates of the budget forums were included. Meeting adjourned. Approved May 11, 2005 —LeeAnn Foreback, Park Board Secretary PARK BOARD MINUTES May 11,2005 RECEIVED MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ruth Leyrer, Melvin McWilliams, ClJgWgm,, bri 8: 01 Smith , , 1NI CITY CL tt11 Il MEMBERS EXCUSED: Ron Lott, Al Mejorado, Patrick Murray OTHERS PRESENT: Rebecca Horn, Student from Mrs. Kotter's Class @ Holt High School; Pete Bosheff; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M., Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA—Ruth Leyrer requested Bancroft be added. Brian Smith had comments (see Comments by Board members). STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS -None PARK BOARD MINUTES - April 13, 2005 MOTION: Moved Smith that the April13, 2005 minutes be approved as distributed; seconded by Smith. Motion carried. The Board also received minutes from Scott Center. PARK MILLAGE UPDATE Kibbey noted Council had approved the millage for the language. Jemerson distributed copies of the resolution. Kibbey will be chairing the Friends of Parks Millage campaign committee. Lott will be active on one of the sub-committees. Attendance has been small so far but attention has been focused on the budget. Once the budget has been approved, he expects attention to the millage will increase. McWilliams questioned the difference in the language from the millage proposal in 2000 and this millage proposal. The phrase"and maintaining"has been added. The last ballot language had"for the operation of the Lansing park system." Council added this phrase so the millage could support some maintenance functions. Jemerson showed the Board a Power Point Presentation on the Park Millage to explain the type of items that have been completed or repaired with the millage. The millage has been used to maintain and replace facilities that currently exist with the exception of the BMX facility,skate park,and portions of the river trail. This is not a campaign tool,but it does explain how the millage was used. Pete Bosheff arrived during presentation. McWilliams noted that proposed projects are dependent upon many things and with the diminishing resources from the state and grant funds,we must not over-sell what can happen with these fiends. Park Board Minutes—May 11, 2005' Page 2 BUDGET UPDATE Jemerson explained that the budget is still in process. The revenues over the next few years are projected at approximately $104 to $106 million. The original budgets were submitted at over $116 million. With health care and cost of living, the budget becomes $120 million. There are many strategies to get to the desired result. There have been unfounded vacancies and additional positions being cut. Subsidies are being addressed. Park millage is also being used for items reaching approximately $610,000. The administration asked the unions for reductions and the request was rejected. When any of these things do not happen,more must be cut from the budget. When something gets put back in, something else must come out. Jemerson explained the departmental the organizational chart and the vacancies comparing FY03 to now. Many vacancies have naturally occurred due to retirements or transfers and positions could not be filled. This situation has not improved. Jemerson took the funded vacant positions to keep the unfunded filled positions. More funding was needed to keep these positions fielded. Much of the funding has been taken from the allotted dollars for seasonals. This will keep the current people working. The department will change. There is an order to combine all garages under one and this will mean out garage operation will be reporting to Public Service. This is similar to other cities but it does take control out of parks hands. The City is currently looking at turning the management of the zoo over to the Potter Park Zoological Society. This is being looked at for Golf Operations also. With so many positions vacant in Grounds and Landscape Maintenance, Grounds and Forestry would be combined. Items that have been discussed for cuts include the outdoor ice rink, indoor ice rink, senior leader, temporary employees for Fenner and Turner-Dodge,adult sports and school programs being turned back to the schools. Kibbey noted the budget is still in process. If board members have questions or concerns,they should contact Council. BANCROFT PARK Leyrer explained Chuck Hamilton is very active at Bancroft Park. He has told her there is gully there that water gathers in and is a holding place for mosquitoes. Jemerson explained the Grounds and Landscape Maintenance Supervisor is investigating the site but this ditch may have had problems for a while. UPDATES The First Tee is progressing. Construction will continue through the summer. It will not be opened until spring of next year. Turner-Dodge Porch should be done after the first two weeks in June. The Otter Fox Exhibit has been bid and the bids are reviewed with the design firm. REMARKS BY BOARD MEMBERS Smith commented that at Ranney Park the gates that lead to the ball players' dugouts do not have latches. This could be a hazard. Jemerson will have this investigated. Park Board Minutes—May 11, 2005 Page 3 Kibbey asked that the fence that is 0.1 mile east of Fenner be repaired. Smith asked about the $1 million bond in the budget for a banquet facility at Groesbeck. Jemerson explained it was pulled. Kibbey noted the board asked that no funding be allocated until a marketing study was completed. Ramey noted the board members need to work on promoting the nullage. Meeting adjourned. Approved June 8, 2005 —LeeAnn Foreback, Park Board Secretary PARK BOARD MINUTES R'L C EI'll D June 8, 2005 20'U7 FED 21 8: 02 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ron Lott, Rick Kibbey, Melvin McWi�l>T s;-,Alf�o-nw( ,Iejorado, Brian Smith �`� ,1_�, s MEMBERS EXCUSED: Ruth Leyrer, Patrick Murray, Claude Ramey OTHERS PRESENT: John Pollard; Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:13 P.M., Gier Community Center, 2400 Hall St. The Board was informed that Claude Ramey is in the hospital but doing well. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS - Amended Agenda to add "Park Millage - Davis Park" as an action item. Also Kibbey requested an item be added requesting clarification of work to be done under the millage. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Johri Pollard asked if the free zoo admission for residents attending Potter Park on Tuesdays would be eliminated. Jemerson was not aware of a plan to change the current policy, but he will check on it and contact Pollard. He will also have the information at the next meeting. PARK BOARD MINUTES MOTION: McWilliams moved the Park Board minutes of May 11, 2005 be approved as distributed; seconded by Smith. Motion carried. PARK MILLAGE UPDATE An informational poster was available that had been put up in our community centers. It is simply a reminder to vote. The"Committee to Save Lansing's Parks"has been formed, and they are lining persons up to work. Board members will be contacted. Lott thanked Kibbey for his time and involvement in the process to this point. He encourages all board members to participate. The millage vote is close and the Board must be aware of the issues and educate persons as much as possible. PARK MILLAGE - DAVIS PARK/OTTER FOX EXHIBIT Jemerson explained the Otter Fox exhibit bid came in at $732,000. The Glassen Foundation will donate$500,000 to be matched by park millage funds of$500,000. We have$230,000 from Glassen at this time, $200,000 from the Park Millage and$93,800 in the 970 account. This totals$523,733. Glassen's full commitment will not be paid until 2006. This leaves $208,000 that must be in place prior to construction beginning. Park Board Minutes - June 8, 2005 Page 2 If the Davis Park project for $200,000 is postponed until next fiscal year, construction could begin on the Otter/Fox exhibit. Glassen will bring in$270,000 next year. This outstanding, new exhibit will bring in more revenue. The bid price is good for 90 days. We would like to award the bid to begin the project by mid-July if approvals were made. McWilliams noted that during the Five Year Plan discussion did occur centering on park projects. There are value judgments taking place as to the various projects. McWilliams is concerned about the result for the millage if the Davis Park project is pulled. There is concern about projects being switched. One of the reasons he voted for a previous millage was to see Waverly become an 18-hole course. It did not happen. He has a hard time replacing approved projects. Smith commented he did not have a problem delaying the installation of a third field at Davis. Kibbey agreed. Lott commented the projects being accomplished must be supported by the majority of the citizens. Projects change as needs change,it is vital to communicate to the public that items proposed are not promises. MOTION: Smith moved to recommend to the Mayor that$200,000 from the Davis Park project be delayed until the next fiscal year with the finds channeled to the Potter Park Otter exhibit to allow construction to begin; seconded by Kibbey. McWilliams asked to be refreshed on the reason for needing a third field at Davis. Jemerson explained it is to bring in tournaments based on information from the Lansing Visitors and Convention Bureau. We have the Gier triplex and need one more to get big tournaments. This would also bring teams to the south end of town. Mejorado commented the Senior Tournament was being played at Gier Fields. Motion carried. (4-1) (McWilliams opposed) BUDGET UPDATE There are many things in the budget that are still being reviewed. Some things have been set aside, primarily fees for sports. All of the expenses for adult and youth sports are to be met through fees and charges. Traditionally fees have not covered park maintenance crews for the softball,baseball and soccer programs. Discussions have occurred regarding increasing fees for next season. The Rhino and Aviary Exhibits are"on-hold"as we have a good chance of receiving a Cool Cities Grant for Hunter Park. Hunter was approved as a project for next fiscal year but because more than $600,000 of line items were transferred to the millage,this was put on hold. If the grant is received, the project list will be reviewed once again. Jemerson will check on any changes to the current policy of Lansing residents having free admission to the zoo on Tuesdays. McWilliams felt resident and nonresident fees need to be enacted at the golf courses and other locations. Funding is not coming from our surrounding cities. Kalamazoo has a two tiered system Park Board Minutes - June 8, 2005 Page 3 and their courses make money. They give funds back to the city and do not have a millage. They do not have administrative costs charged back to the courses Kibbey noted the overhead is what puts the courses in debt. People pay through taxes, millage and fees, but the city should be providing a service and not making a profit. Jemerson explained that resident/nonresident fees had been charged at Groesbeck but that practice was stopped due to a deed clause. When the property was conveyed to the City of Lansing from the State of Michigan, there was a deed clause that differential fees cannot be charged. PARK MILLAGE CAMPAIGN Kibbey explained there is a perception that the millage is not going to the projects intended. He thought a list of accomplished projects along with the list of planned projects should be compiled for distribution. This will give people a guide. The list should also explain how projects end up being altered and added or deleted from the list. He would like to see things pinpointed on a list consistently. Lott noted there are advantages to a list but is a little uncomfortable to be specific with the third, fourth and fifth year because there are too many variables. Jemerson reminded the Board the draft of the Five Year Plan had a specific list of FY06 projects. Council asked this be removed. In the Five Year Plan the Action Plan talks about projects that the department would like to accomplish. Jemerson could extract those projects in a bulleted list but a date or value is hard to pinpoint. Lott supported the idea of having a process for input on changes to the list. Kibbey noted Public Service knows when streets will be paved, the Fire Department knows when a new fire truck will be purchased, and the Park Department should also have an idea when projects will be scheduled. MOTION: Kibbey moved that direction be given to Murdock Jemerson as to which items we think will occur in which years. Seconded by Smith. Motion carried. UPDATES At The First Tee project the utilities are being installed on site. We have been meeting with the GM PEP program and The First Tee group. The goal is to have the GM workers be able to help in the building construction. The plans and specifications were done courtesy of Gove. Construction should begin in July. The Turner-Dodge Porch has been primed and will be painted soon. The rotten wood has been replaced. Mayor's River Walk was a success although there was controversy. Jemerson called all the candidates the morning prior to the walk asking that they not pass out information at the beginning of the walk due to environmental concerns. This would save the City from having to send a cleanup crew to pickup discarded literature. All the candidates agreed. Tables were set up at Turner-Dodge (the end of the walk) for the candidates. By City Charter the Department of Parks and Recreation has the right to perform recreation programming and free speech does not guarantee the right to Park Board Minutes - June 8, 2005 Page 4 interrupt programming. We have set up tables for candidates at the walk and at our concerts in the parks. The candidates have all been respectful of this. Ron Lott is sending out letters. One will be in defense of Murdock Jemerson and the Parks and Recreation Department regarding the use of parolees. The other will deal with yard signs being erected against the millage prior to any information being distributed. The third issue is the Lotts will be moving off of Forest Road in September or October. He would prefer to stay on the Board until the end of August. He also would like to remain on the board if he could be an at-large representative. Jemerson noted on the Jail Alternative Sentencing Program JASP) a meeting was held with the Friend of the Court staff and others. He is not against having these persons work. The proposal had not been received when the first call came in from the Lansing State Journal. The proposed workers have been referred to as "volunteers"but they are not volunteers. Jemerson is not opposed to the principal and there are projects that could be accomplished. This department has a third of its workforce and only one of three supervisors. Questions need to be answered on supervision issues and liability issues. Unfortunately the printed column had some misinformation with both Jemerson and Scott Dedic, UAW Local President, be misquoted and/or quoted out of context. The City Administration and the Union are working together. Potter Park Zoological Society's strategic board has discussed a proposal regarding the Mayor forming a task force to look into the process of turning the zoo over to the PPZS. This has been referred to the full Board of the PPZS for action. Smith wondered if the Park Board would be involved. Jemerson explained the Mayor typically asks for representatives from the department board in such cases. John Pollard spoke explaining he had erected signs out as the U.S. Constitution allows. The City Attorney wrote a memo asking the ordinance be changed in January. No one has acted on this. He follows the constitution not the city ordinance. COMMENTS BY BOARD MEMBERS Smith asked if the MSU Women's Crew Club has presented any plans for the current year. Jemerson will bring an update to the next meeting. Meeting adjourned. Approved September 14, 2005 - LeeAnn Foreback, Park Board Secretary PARK BOARD MINUTES ►�E C�1 V D September 14, 2005 ," � 21 Ai1 A 2 10 FEID 02 MEMBERS PRESENTS: Ron Lott, Rick Kibbey, Ruth Leyrer,rMelvil�,,M,cW ill,�aiii Patrick Murray, Claude Ramey, Brian SIi it-,'! MEMBERS EXCUSED: Alfonso Mejorado OTHERS PRESENTS: John Pollard; Darnell Oldham, Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation. CALL TO ORDER: 7:09 P.M., Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster Ave. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS- There were no deletions to the agenda. Lott requested he may add two items regarding the Park Millage Priority and Joint Project. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS John Pollard and Darnell Oldham both spoke on issues of the Park Millage and Budget. PARK BOARD MINUTES The June 8, 2005 Park Board minutes were approved with a note that a recommendation from the Millage Committee suggesting a process to determine Millage money priorities be considered. MOTION: Kibbey moved the Park Board minutes of June 8, 2005 be approved as distributed; seconded by McWilliams. Motion carried. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Lott reminded Board of uncertainty of his Board Membership. Election of officers resulted as President R. Kibbey elected 6— I and Vice President R. Lott elected 7—0. GRAND RIVER PARK MONITORING WELLS Request for monitoring wells at Grand River Park was tabled to a later date to be discussed on sight. SALE OF PAULSON PROPERTY Tabled until October (No information) Park Board Minutes— September 14, 2005 Page 2 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE HEART OF MICHIGAN TRAILS Group is looking at regional group to oversee trails. Resolution of support considered. Lott moved support, McWilliams seconded. Discussion and comments followed Motion carried: (6-1) Lott passed information around with ward by ward millage vote results. VIP (Vision Insight Planning) This program was initiated in California. Information was presented. ACLU Update on Play in the Park. Board members expressed thoughts on the issue. UPDATES Personnel Many Parks staff took early retirement. Key positions are now vacant in some areas. Adjustments are being made slowly. Construction Projects First Tee project is progressing nicely. Should be ready in the spring. Turner Dodge House is 90% done. Marshall Park restroom project is to start soon. Potter Park Zoo ground breaking ceremony today for Fox/Otter exhibit. INFORMATION Information Items were presented by Murdock Jemerson. Meeting adjourned. Approved October 12, 2005 —LeeAnn Foreback, Park Board Secretary PARK BOARD MINUTES October 12,2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Melvin McWilliams, C If S 02 Ruth Leyrer, Brian Smith, Alfonso Mejorado. Pat Murray arrived at 7:40 p.m. U r1` MEMBERS ABSENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Sylvester Stewart; Sam Horton; Paul Carrier; Charles Terry; John Foss; Carol Munroe, Parks and Recreation; Lindsay Campbell; David Campbell; Bob Every; John Jared; Sam Eyde; Pete Bosheff; Pat Murray; Tim Russ; and Murdock Jemerson, Director of Parks and Recreation CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA -None STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS No comments from the citizens ------ PARK BOARD MINUTES \ September 14, 2005 and special minutes of September 21 MOTION: Leyrer moved the minutes of September 14, 2005 be approved as submitted; seconded by Ramey. RANNEY PARK HANDBALL COURT MEMORIAL NAMING A letter and signed petition from citizens requested dedicating Ranney Park handball court in honor of Norm Young. Jemerson stated he had attended the memorial review board meeting today with John Foss, who gave a presentation. It was unanimously okayed to dedicate the court with the knowledge that it would be presented at the Park Board tonight. Jemerson distributed guide lines regarding the naming of our parks and handouts that had been presented at the review board. Ranney Park is classified at a city wide#3 park. Mr. Foss and Mr. Eyde were in attendance and presented Mr. Young's credentials for this nomination. He is a long time Lansing resident, attended Sexton H.S. where he was state wrestling championship 2 years, was MSU big ten champion 2 years and a NCAA champion his senior year at MSU. He is also the national champion 19 times in the sport of handball. His demeanor and barring speak for himself and the city of Lansing. Mr. Foss suggested continuing with the process to name the handball court after Mr. Young with a plaque to recognize Mr. Young. They have the language prepared that reflects his accomplishments and history that they % want inscribed on the plaque and placed near the one wall court for all to observe. Park Board Minutes—October 12, 2005 Page 2 Board member Leyrer asked about the dimensions, material and design of the plaque. The plaque would be 12" x 10" and made out of bronze or copper with the inscription in cut or raised letters. The plaque would meet the city requirements. Jemerson presented pictures of previous memorial plaques that have been placed throughout the city. Questions that were addressed at the review board included the cost involved. A 40" stand could be made to hold the plaque for approximately $125. The bronze plaque would run approx. $400 and the copper plaque would be approx. 2/3 of that cost. The plaque would be purchased through a local trophy company located in Frandor. It is expected that through handball players in Mid-Michigan $1,000 or more could be raised for upkeep and that with the funds raised a suggestion was made to the board about repairing the court and the money over and above the cost of the plaques could be dedicated to refurbishing the court. Pete Bosheff would contribute $50 to the fund and recommends they speak with Dave Campbell of the skate park operating committee. He also suggests placing the plaque where it can be seen, but not skated on. Mr. Kibbey stated in the guidelines, in order for a nominee to have a city wide facility named after them they must be deceased. Recommendation by Kibbey was to have two board members meet with two committee members to discuss a comprehensive package to bring this facility up to speed. Kibbey feels it would not be an honor to name this facility in it's current condition after a man of this renown and recognition. Comment was made to the petitioners that they review the guidelines of renaming a facility and that applicants are not necessarily required to meet all components, but they may want to also focus on Mr. Young's public service commitments. Motion was made to form a committee to review this and bring it back to the next park board meeting. Seconded,moved and supported as per discussion. REQUEST FOR CELL TOWER EXPANSION Jemerson stated we have a contract with American Tower and they have asked for an additional 320 sq. ft. of park area behind Westside Park to be included into their existing agreement. Pictures were presented to show the 320 sq. ft. section that is being requested, which is currently vacant. The current agreement with America Tower is $4.80 per sq. ft. which equals $5,627.53 per year in revenue and has a 3% increase each year. They proposed for the additional 320 sq. ft. would be to increase the base rent by $1,500 per year to accommodate two more units which would include T-Mobile and one other company. The Parks Department receives $160 each month from each company that attaches themselves to this tower. The $160 each for the two companies is $320 a month or$3,900 in addition to what is currently received, plus the additional $1,500 which divided by 320 sq. ft. equals $4.69 per sq. ft. However, with the additional base rental, monthly fee for two attachments, this actually takes it to over $16 a sq. ft. Park Board Minutes—October 12, 2005 Page 3 Jemerson stated the telecommunication devices are on the tower, but the power equipment is what will be in the additional sq. ft. This is not an additional tower, but attachments to the existing tower. It was addressed that this revenue is allocated to the Parks Department land acquisition fund and not the city's general fund. However, this last year some of the funds had been removed from this account to help the city's budget. Additional concerns were brought forward to why the board should accommodate a company like American Tower, who is paying an additional amount, but making a lot more as a company, only to add to the Parks account that is not immune from budget balancing. Questions were also asked regarding environmental studies, if they had been requested and about the impact of this on the Westside Neighborhood. Jemerson stated this was a good point about the additional money and that having two additional companies providing revenue to the Parks account and that these concerns should be expressed to Council that this additional money should stay with the Parks Department. Lott moved to approve the American Tower expansion and lease agreement, seconded for discussion. Discussion followed regarding the effect on the community antennas and cell phones. Jemerson stated there have not been any complaints regarding cell towers in the city parks. Mr. Russ asked if there has been an analysis done on what the appraised value of the facility would be if it was on private property and what the tax liability would be to the city and is it comparable to what they are paying. He feels that this is the only way to secure that American Tower is paying a fair deal and not taking advantage of a good deal by using park land. Jermerson stated that a study of this nature has not been done, but this deal is comparable to the other existing contracts the parks has on cell towers. Mr. Kibbey stated he has a sense this agreement brings forth both environmental and economic questions and the board wants a report back on economic questions, comparable rent and comparable prices in other cities and environmental responses relative to possible hazards and interference. Motion: Moved to table to the next board meeting, seconded. Motion carried. Mr. Oldham stated in addition to the comments made earlier that parks money, no matter the source, should not be used to balance the city budget, this money should be in a designated account used for park projects and land acquisition. In additional to the other concerns, this money should be dedicated for park use only. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM Jemerson brought to the board that the department has been working with the Friends of Wainwright and have had four meetings and decided on a master plan to include two tennis Park Board Minutes—October 12, 2005 Page 4 courts, one volleyball court, a soccer field, picnic pavilion, spray park, climbing wall, community garden, wildflower meadows, central plaza and life trail stations around the trail that community can exercise at, an improved main entrance and trail. This is the park they hope to be build over the next few years and staff will present these phases during capital improvement programs. This park as well as Graves Park will have additions. There is also a petition for a walk along Moore River Drive from the entrance of Cambridge to the entrance of Francis Park. This will prevent the community from going into the street at Cambridge where the sidewalk ends. Budget information is unavailable at this time from the City Hall for putting together the CIP for fiscal year 07. This information will be forthcoming from staff with these 3 projects in it. Meetings have also been held with Graves Park, the Coachlight Neighborhood Association and putting together a master plan for them as well as Averill Park. Mr. Horton stated Wainwright Park is the heart of Churchill Downs Community Association and the life of Churchill Downs is Wainwright Park. By making this type of improvement in this park, it will improve the quality of life in the area and attract buy-ins into Churchill Downs as opposed to rental property. This will increase the value of homes in the community, which will increase tax revenue to the city. With these improvements, the value of the homes has to go up making this a win/win situation. Mr. Carrier spoke on behalf of the new magnet school, Wainwright Leadership Magnet Academy, a K-8 school located in the Wainwright Elementary School that has grown in double of it's population from around Lansing. The PTO met and would like to know if they can have parents sign a petition showing their joy and respect for the park project and submit it to the Parks Department instead of 400 parents coming to a meeting. Kibbey asked Mr. Carrier to write up their own petition and get together with the work group on this project, as well as the kids and parents from the school to form together a Friends of Wainwright Park. Also, if this project comes up as a budget item before City Council for a group of supporters to attend the council meeting to make their point known of how they feel about the park. Kibbey also offered assistance in getting in touch with other Friend groups to assist in forming a Friends group. Mr. Oldham inquired when work would begin on this project. Jemerson indicated we would recommend a number of projects for the next fiscal year and that City Hall would be indicating through normal memos that Capital Improvement Projects needed to be put together. When this happens, that is when the list is put together to bring to the Park Board and the Park Board will have the task of sorting out the projects to include in the list along with the Parks Department recommendations. The millage brings about $2,000,000 a year, but last year $8,000,000 worth of problems had been brought to the board. The board as an advisory group will make recommendations to the Mayor; the Mayor will review the recommendations and present them to city council as regular budget. The projects will go through the budget process of council, which includes numerous public hearings. The public hearings are a good time for Friends groups to attend meetings and push for their projects. Council meets the second Saturday in May to approve the budget and if approved the funds are available July 1, 2006. Once funds are available, we can put together the design for the part of the Master Plan we would be proposing. Signatures have been collected to get tennis courts done and that may be the first piece of the project to be proposed. Park Board Minutes— October 12, 2005 Page 5 Kibbey inquired about the length of this process. Jemerson indicated it would be 2 weeks for the design, 2 to 3 weeks for the bid process, once the bid is awarded the contract needs to get bid documents together, taking this process to September or October before the project could start. Lott made note that as a board member he had attended some of the Churchill Neighborhood Association meetings and wants to applaud the time and effort that has been put into this project and appreciates that when members of the community get involved it makes the job of the board easier. A question was asked regarding the 5 year CIP plan established some time ago and what elements of this plan were identified in that plan. Jemerson replied that the individual projects were not, but Wainwright was identified as a location. No dollar amounts were assigned, but Wainwright and Graves Parks were included in renovation plans. A citizen stressed that his concern was that he did not want the people of Wainwright to get the impression this is a"done deal"and all the projects would be completed at the same time. A question was raised regarding the sidewalk at Moores River Drive and should the Parks Department be concerned when sidewalks are the cities responsibility and use park money to put sidewalks in. Jemerson replied there are sidewalks and boardwalks and this has section has been included in the sidewalk studies and this area is on parkland, thus involving the Parks Department in putting in a boardwalk/sidewalk. This concern is this sidewalk has been on the list for years and has not been done, which caused individuals to walk into the street. There is a petition to put in a boardwalk and that project will be present to the Park Board and the board can make their recommendations. If it is a sidewalk it will be Public Service, if it is a boardwalk, it will be the parks responsibility. RANNEY BALL PARK FIELD SCORER'S BUILDING AND DUGOUT Kibbey stated there is a bid form from the City, a letter from Pete Bosheff and a bid form on the scorer building. There is a group of people associated with Ranney Skate Park interested in looking at the plans. Mr. Bosheff, a representative from Ranney Skate Park, indicated they have been an advocate since 1996 and probably before with other projects and how meaningful public involvement is with the concept levels throughout the project. Mr. Bosheff simply asks that people who are users, participants, coaches, advocates, local experts or friends be aware of design changes. With renovations at Ranney Park on the concession building and ball field buildings, group sessions with the 1999 Ranney Park master plan was successful by attending.public meetings and taking the opportunity to having input at the concept level early, not after the plans are done and committed to bids and final documents. This reflects a progressive community that is interested in its citizens, because citizens like to be involved. Mr. Bosheff stated they have had remarkable results at Ranney Park and have a dynamic partnership with the City. They feel their request is reasonable and were unaware that the design work had been done early 2005, were unaware the bids were being let out in July and that the bids were then being opened. There was some input from Mr. Bosheff s perspective. There were a couple of meetings about concepts, but the request for coaches,players and Ranney advocates to be part of the actual components and design meetings and go through the Park Board Minutes—October 12, 2005 Page 6 specifications was never done. We should not have to depend entirely on tax dollars to refurbish or build our buildings. The opportunity in this community for fund raising is profound. Mr. Every stated he met with Dick Shaefer, went over the plans and realized there was enough there that we are moving in the right direction. With the girls league, concerts, skateboard and ball games every night he is real happy with the results. Other schools have called him and are interested in bringing their teams to this field. Mr. Every was at the field and was able to participate in a meeting on-site offer his suggestions. He feels the meetings should be formally announced with a letter and exact time. Jemerson responded he thought for sure Mr. Every had been informed of the specific time for the meeting at Ranney. This meeting was to be with Mr. Every, the Parks sports staff, and Capitol Consultants. Mr. Every was to be involved as he is the spokes person in the community for the coaches. This meeting started with $60,000 to renovate the main tower, but as the meeting progressed, everyone started dreaming about the expansion and put the plan together knowing it would go over budget, but these were the elements we wanted to bid out and take pieces to start the project. The document that went out to bid is more than anticipated. The bidders have been identified and made the recommendation as to who the construction company would be. Because the sufficient dollars are not available for the project, the recommendation is to begin the main building, which includes the north dugouts storage areas and the east dugout area, and north dugout and second floor. Mr. Every responded he had received a call, but did not realize how much he was to be involved. MILLAGE MONEY PRIORITIES This item was tabled until November meeting by consensus. BOARD COMMENTS Change of Board Members McWilliams and Lott and their assignments was approved by the Council. Meeting adjourned at 8:47 p.m. r Respectfully submitted Kellie Brown, Interim Park Board Secretary Approved November 9, 2005. PARK BOARD MINUTES November 9, 2005 MEMBERS PRESENT: Alofonso Mejorado, Brian Smith, Ruth Leyrer, Ron Lott,I is Kibbey. Note was made Melvin McWilliams abPuti�_p �: 7:30 p.m. _ 02 Lrilll MEMBERS ABSENT: Claude Ramey, Pat Murray OTHERS PRESENT: Karen Langeland, Associate Athletic Director at MSU, Matt Weise, head coach MSU Crew Team, Stacy Rippetoe, assistant coach MSU Crew Team, Tanya Moore, Lansing Parks Department CALL TO ORDER: 7:09 P.M. Gier Community Center, 2400 Hall Street ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA: Addition by Jemerson to add FY06 on Aviary as a new business action. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS: PARK BOARD MINUTES: October 12, 2005 and special minutes of October 19, 2005 Moved by Smith and seconded by Leyrer to approve board minutes. Motion carried. MOTION: Lott moved the minutes of October 19, 2005 be approved, supported by Smith, motion carried MSU SUMMER BOATING PROGRAM. Karen Langeland, Associate Athletic Director at MSU, Matt Weise, head coach and Stacy Rippetoe, assistant coach provided handouts and a power point presentation of the MSU Crew activities at Grand River Park. The first item was the Summer Rowing Program in conjunction with Lansing Parks Summer Kids Camp. This is a one week program with approximately 240 participants between the ages of 7 and 12. The idea behind this program is to introduce youth to rowing, but it has also introduced the kids to water and helped conquer fears they may have. The crew team also brings rowing machines to introduce youth to exercise and the basics of rowing. MSU athletes also attend the kid's camp summer picnic at Hawk Island to introduce the kids to rowing and water sports. In the fall the three boat houses are open and the Lansing Oar & Paddle Club and MSU Crew team provide information about programs available. This event brings about 2,000 people to Grand River Park. Through the academic and life skills programs, the rowers have a pen pal program with students from 12 schools. They correspond with each other and the athletes will then visit the schools. The athletes also visit the schools in March during reading month, to read to the kids. Other outreach programs the athletes participate in are: a lip sync contest, the Children's Miracle Network (they raised over$2,000 last year), the DARE program, raising money for Teach for Toys and Clean Park Board Minutes—November 9, 2005 Page 2 Up the River. Athletes participate in more than 80 outreach programs. Probably the best program was started in 2002 by Stacy, called the "Pink Ribbon Crew". This program has grown to 43 participants who have taken up rowing. They are all breast cancer survivors. This year the City of Lansing proclaimed October 23 as Pink Ribbon Crew Day. Christine Campbell from the Pink Ribbon Crew stated she was never an athlete, but joined last fall and has found this program and the support of MSU to be unbelievable. Comment was also made from a member of the Lansing Oar and Paddle Club that their membership has increased with additional family members and friends. Member Leyrer asked if there were children from the LP & R summer kids camp who were not allowed to go. Mr. Weise indicated that there is a sign up and there are 30 to 45 kids who come each morning and afternoon. It was indicated that the number of youth is limited to monitor behavior on the water and to provide appropriate counselor-to-youth ratio. Member Leyrer also asked if the program was going to continue next year and if more children would be allowed to go. Mr. Weise stated that the boats, once put together for this program, must remain in the water. The wakes created by water skiers and jet skis take atoll on the equipment and fill them with water, so the equipment can't really be left in the water longer than a week. With this time limitation, the numbers may be increased to 300. There are 8 to 10 athletes and 4 to 6 MSU staff involved with the kids during this summer program. It was also asked if the dock facilities are adequate for this program. Mr. Weise indicated that once the boats are put together they weigh a lot and need to be attached to the barge, which is anchored in the water. Unless a break wall is installed, there is really no way to stop the wakes from reaching the equipment. Comment was also made from a member of the Lansing Oar and Paddle club that boaters will sometimes try to capsize a crew team. Jemerson commented that the no wake issue has been brought before the park board several times in the past. The issue was taken to the DNR who met with the Intergovernmental Committee of Lansing City Council, along with representatives from the DNR law department to speak about the no wake issue. The problem with a no wake along the Grand River is that the shoreline of the Grand River abuts to two or three local governments and all local governments involved would have to agree on a no wake rule. Communication has not taken place with all agencies involved, but this is not a dead issue. Jemerson agrees this should take place. Kibbey commented that it should not be difficult to get three people together for a no wake consortium and action on the citizens' part should move this forward and get it on the council's agenda. Jemerson stated each local unit would have to pass, by their legislative body, a resolution supporting a no wake during a certain time period. The three communities consist of Eaton County, Lansing Township and the City of Lansing. The Ingham County Marine Patrol would be the agency, as well as the DNR law division, would be on the river to enforce this. FY07 CIP PROJECTS Kibbey noted that Category 1 projects do not allow for much discretion due to mandates or prior agreements. Kibby also noted that 41 in the second category should be #9 in category 1. Jemerson made note to strike#7 in category two, as this project was a duplicate item. Park Board Minutes—November 9, 2005 Page 3 The goal of this meeting is to prioritize $1.4 million in discretionary projects and about $600,000 in non-discretionary projects. Jemerson stated he did not include in this list over $610,000 general funded items from the Park Millage that were from FY06. He did not want to go into FY07 and take this money out of the CIP money. Jemerson stated that he hoped the Park Board would have some statement regarding this action to recommend to the Mayor. Kibbey asked the board if anyone recalled if the tree inventory software was something they had agreed to move back for a year. Comment was made that the issue was not formalized. Additional comment was made that it is still tabled. Members will go through the CIP list and vote on priority of projects, then total the dollar amounts. Tanya Moore went through each item on the CIP list and provided a short description of the work that was proposed to be done. On item#38, Rhino Exhibit, Jemerson explained consideration was made to put off the Rhino Exhibit and replace the Aviary. This created confusion with Council, so the $100,000 for this project has been put into a controlled account. The Public Service committee met on November 9, 2005 and placed the Aviary on the agenda due to the $100,000 still in the controlled account. The Public Service Committee felt with the difficult Park Millage campaign this year and a heavy focus on the new Otter Exhibit, the money would be better spent on neighborhood projects. Jemerson proposed to the committee to use the money to add tennis courts to Wainwright. He would include the price in the bid package he was obtaining for courts at Quentin Park. This would be an additional $70,000 to the current bid. The Committee agreed to this and will transfer the controlled funds if this proposal is accepted by the Park Board. Tanya Moore also made note that item#17, Hunter Park, is a 50/50 matching grant project with Land and Water. Kibbey summarized that Council wants to take the $100,000 they were holding for the Aviary and use it for tennis courts at Wainwright Park. MOTION: McWilliams moved to accept this proposal, supported by Smith. Motion carried. MILLAGE MONEY PRIORITIES This is a compilation of existing policies and was put in the board packet to provide guidelines for the current CIP projects and assist with priorities. AMERICAN TOWER EXPANSION A special meeting was held on October 19, 2005. No additions were made to the minutes. Leyrer asked if the pricing of park land was compared to non-park land. Jemerson replied that he thought what would be relevant is to take a look at our existing contracts. Staff put together a document on what we have now in comparison to the four towers we have. Jemerson stated that emissions and environment studies were delved into at the beginning of putting cell towers on park land. There is not a problem with emissions; this was brought out at the very beginning of the issue. The original cell contracts were negotiated by different departments and handed to the Park Board Minutes—November 9, 2005 Page 4 Parks Department. There are two lease agreements for the cell tower at Kircher and one for Parcel B. This company pays 5 years in advance; the Parks has already received a check for $132,000 for the period of May 2004 through May 2009. Future incentives for the Parks Department include 10% of total gross rent contained in any sub-lease that AAT Communication Corporation enters into. This is the same agreement that American Tower is now asking for. We received a check September 2, 2005 for $15,000 for the 10% due on a sub-lease. AAT has an annual base rent of$13,200 per tower, plus 10% for any company that attaches to AAT towers. American Tower has a base rent of$5,600, plus the 10% for any sublease. The total annual amount of sub-leases is $6,306 for a total base rent of around $12,000. What was approved was an additional 320 sq. ft. on the ground for power boxes and the financial impact of this would be an annual base rent of($5,600, $6,300 and $1,500) $13,400, plus 10% from 2 more potential sub-leases. Verison Wireless feels what they are offering is more than sufficient; their base rent is $8,400 with no incentives. The base rent increases every 5 years by 20 percent. MOTION: Leyrer moved to approve for American Tower to apply the current terms to their new request (base rent, 10% of sub-lease, annual base increase by 3%). Supported. McWilliams stated he had concerns about comparing this agreement with what has been negotiated with other companies. That he would feel better is he had some of the information that he has been asking for. He has researched his concerns about radiation, location relative to residential dwellings and safety issues. He also thinks we should know what other communities are doing with cell towers, rental agreements and if the economic component in other areas is comparable to Lansing. Leyrer voiced her disappointment that a special meeting was held about this and then an American Tower representative did not attend this Board meeting. Motion failed. Kibbey hopes by the December board meeting to have a report from staff on the economic questions and a representative from American Tower. Leyrer asked if it is possible to find out some dollar amounts from the private industry. Kibbey recommended contacting the Lansing School District, City of East Lansing and Ingham County to compare terms. No further recording is available. A Respectfully submitted - :V�' Alcn�� Kellie 14rown, Interim Park Board Secretary Approved December 14, 2005. PARK BOARD MINUTES RECEIVED t ) December 14, 2005 2007 fi El 2 I A P11 8: MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Melvin McWilliams, Ruth J&,113 is � eLE Smith, Pat Murray, Claude Ramey(arrived late) MEMBERS ABSENT: Alfonso Mejorado OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Lansing Parks &Recreation, Roberta Miller, The Garden Project, Sue Eareckson, Friends of Bancroft Park, Irene McDonnell-Cahill, Forestry-Lansing Parks Department CALL TO ORDER: 7:09 P.M. Foster Community Center, 200 N. Foster Ave. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA: Copies of CIP priorities were distributed, along with Mr. Lott's condensed minutes of November 9, 2005. PARK BOARD MINUTES: November 9, 2005 MOTION: Moved by Murray that the November 9, 2005 minutes be approved as distributed; seconded by McWilliams. Motion carried. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS Irene Cahill spoke of behalf of Jenny Oro Grau from the Place Neighborhood. Ms. Grout Grau applied for and received a$1,000 grant from Global Re-Leaf. This is a matching grant with money from the Parks Department. Irene identified 12 small, 12 medium and 8 large tree sights in the neighborhood and 12 to 15 trees could probably be planted with this money. Neighborhood people would help plant the trees, a possible lottery system to determine where the trees would be planted. Forestry would provide the soil,materials, equipment and supervision. Leyrer inquired if the proposed sights were where trees had been removed. Irene indicated this was the case. Jemerson stated the $1,000 match would be out of the Parks Millage and that is why it is being brought before the board. There is park millage money in the general fund and in the regular millage budget for citywide repair and maintenance that this money can be taken from. The board asked a question if this request would go from the board to the council. Jemerson stated yes it would go to council because this is a matching grant and he wants council to know what our park millage is for. Leyrer asked if there was a deadline date and Irene indicated this would be done in the spring. This is the first time the City of Lansing �, i Park Board Minutes—December 14, 2005 Page 2 has received money from Global Re-Leaf. Leyrer made a motion for the Park Board to allow $1,000 toward the neighborhood Global Re-Leaf,motion supported. Clarification was made that the motion was to recommend$1,000 be matched to the Global Re-Leaf grant. Motion carried. Jemerson also made note that in the board packet was a memo from staff regarding the Norm Young memorial. Jemerson stated that he wants to have memos with staff recommendations and a resolution on each action item to clarify information for motions. Roberta Miller from the Garden Project mentioned they use the Foster Park building as a resource center to store equipment, plants and use as a meeting place. They are ready to move ahead with renovations and are thankful for the support. The number of gardens has increased, so more people are using the building. GLOBAL RE-LEAF GRANT Action has already been successful on the Global Re-Leaf grant in the citizen's statement section of the minutes. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM PROJECTS 07—PUBLIC HEARING Kibbey indicated the board was convening a CIP Programs 07 public hearing per our new procedure. Lott provided a first draft summarizing the number of votes/stickers each project had, listed them in three categories: first category had the projects with the most support, second category had items that may or may not make it and the third category was the rest of the items. A disclaimer statement was added to indicate that this was not a final decision and that Murray and Ramey were absent from the last meeting. Kibbey indicated there was a fourth category that has previously committed projects in it. Lott stated that he attended the City Council meeting this week and advised people of the public meeting tonight and the time of the January meeting. Leyrer made comment that she hoped the neighborhood groups were informed of these meetings and to obtain their input. Lott suggested sending out this category list to the neighborhood groups with an invitation to attend the January meeting to have the public's input. Kibbey stated he is part of Mayor-elect Bernero's transition team and he wants to bring to the transition committee background on the Parks Board/Department, the Five Year Action Plan and the millage. Jemerson asked for clarification on category 3, item I that the $100,000 listed was for$50,000 each for Wainwright and Ormond. Is the Aviary listed in the "other"projects in the bottom Park Board Minutes—December 14, 2005 Page 3 of category 3. The money for the Aviary was moved to Wainwright Park, but Jemerson wants to be sure the Aviary is listed in the other projects in category 3. Comment by the board was made that it will be added to the list. No comments were made from the public. Kibbey considered this hearing closed. NORM YOUNG MEMORIAL Kibbey indicated the committee has not met on this item yet,but the background check has been completed. Jemerson stated the City of Lansing cannot do the background check. The parties nominating Mr. Young did obtain a check with the State Police and the background has cleared. Kibbey wanted to know if the board was in favor of proceeding with naming the handball court after Mr. Young. The staff recommended approval of this. McWilliams has concerns about the public service component and the consistency of his service with the guidelines. He also raised questions about where Mr. Young taught and how long. Jemerson stated Mr. Young has dedicated 10 years of volunteer service to the Meals-on-Wheels program. Concerns were also expressed about the lack of other community service, also the lack of City of Lansing resident signatures on the petition. This proposal has passed the Memorial Review Board. Park Board members were also wondering if there could be just a plaque honoring him instead of renaming the facility. The application asks for the renaming of the handball court, which is not currently named. Leyrer also asked if the Meals-on-Wheels were done in Lansing, and does he still live in Lansing. Kibbey said he would find out more information. Jemerson stated that he hopes to present this type of action item in this type of format, so that the board can see what the staff recommendations are and the resolution number so the board can refer to a specific action by resolution number and maintain a file of the resolutions. Lott moved to table the issue of the naming of the Ranney Handball court until further information is available, seconded by Leyrer. Discussion was made that Mr. Young did not meet the guidelines for naming a facility after a living person such as: commitment to maintain and supervise the park facility,petition signed by people within one block of the facility, neighborhood association recognition. McWilliams stated the guidelines specifically say applicants do not have to meet all the criteria. Kibbey said once the additional information is available the Board will have more to work on with this subject. Jemerson stated he has concerns about the Review Board passing things before the Park Board has acted on them. Jemerson also stated that he would push that when Park facilities come before the Review Board that the Park Board must act on them first. It was moved to table Resolution 12-2005-01 until the January or February meeting when more information is available, seconded by Leyrer. Motion carried. Park Board Minutes—December 14, 2005 Page 4 AMERICAN TOWER EXPANSION Jemerson stated that representatives from American Tower were not invited to this meeting. Jemerson had received comment from the Deputy City Attorney that he was under the impression that this property was dedicated parkland and we would have to have a vote of the people. After researching the property,the property was originally BW&L property and was given to the city as surplus property and is not dedicated property. The memo has been returned to the City Attorney,however this will come back to the board, as there will have to be a 285 review. At this time there is not information available from other municipalities on the rental fees they receive. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM PROJECTS FY07 Recommendation was made to put a list together and send it along with an invitation to neighborhood groups to attend the January meeting and provide input. A question was asked regarding the River Trail seawall that is falling in and doesn't it have to be taken care of right away? Jemerson stated there is money funded for the design work, which is being worked on now. This will have to be dealt with out of repair and maintenance or make it a project. This area is along Townsend Street, GM before you get to Moores Park where the trail is being supported by gabion baskets,which is what is tipping and falling in. Leyrer asked about the Gier gym expansion and if it was renovations to or increasing the gym size. Jemerson stated it was increasing the size to put bleachers in the gym. Ramey made comment that during floor hockey it is crowded and someone is going to get hurt. It was also commented on that the Gier community provided support for the park millage. ORMAND PARK Jemerson indicated this was a good meeting with representatives of streets in the area and councihnember Bauer was also in attendance. Basically the community wants a quite natural park,would like the playground equipment replaced. They were not interested in a pavilion; they want to continue to walls their dogs in the park. There will be signage regarding the clean up from pets. Representatives from Landscape, Architects and Planners Consultants put forth three options and will return with the final option from the input received. There will not be a lot done to change the park or cost involved. CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS Jemerson reported the Otter/Fox building has the walls up, the plumbing and electrical are together and should continue to work through the winter. The contractor will be coming in to do the exhibits in the spring. The ribbon cutting should take place in late June or early July. Marshall Park should be ready by spring or maybe February. Park Board Minutes—December 14, 2005 Page 5 Sycamore 1"Tee project is pretty much complete except for the finishing touches on the maintenance barn. The barn is being held up by code compliance, due to the building being a Canadian product. It should not be a problem, as this type of building has been built in the US before. Quentin/Wainwright the $100,000 was passed by Council to be transferred to Quentin and when the weather breaks in Marcl-/April the project will get under way and the tennis courts will be built at both locations. Leyrer asked at Sycamore what we were still looking at being completed. Jemerson stated it was the academy building and it is a matter of waiting for the permit, which should not be a problem. It is hopeful to be in the building by July 2006. STAFF UPDATES Jemerson stated 2 years ago we had 126 positions, which was still not full staff. We are currently at a 23%vacancy with only 98 positions filled. Four positions are vacant that are suppose to be re-hired. We are currently in the process of filling the vacant programmer's position at Foster Center. Another vacant position in the process of being filled is under Parks and Forestry, for a grounds and landscape supervisor. The golf maintenance supervisor and greens keeper have both been submitted under a critical needs letters, at this point we do not know if they will be acted upon until the new administration comes in. McWilliams asked if the golf maintenance supervisor works year round at this job or do they other things in the winter. Jemerson stated that John Johnson, who retired in September, worked year round. However, the job would now be a 9-month position. TRANSITION TEAM TASK FORCE PUBLIC HEARING This meeting will be held Thursday,December 15 at Sexton High School. Kibbey encouraged anyone from the Board that was interested to attend. This meeting will be about Neighborhoods, Housing, and Parks and Recreation. The Parks and Recreation committee has 25 individuals on it. Jemerson stated on the City Council agenda that re-appointments were put up and should be moved to public service. Kibbey made note that Murdock Jemerson had been maintained as the Parks and Recreation Director. Lott indicated he has received a letter updating the support of the Michigan National Resources Trust Fund. Park Board Minutes—December 14, 2005 Page 6 RIVER TRAIL GRANT Jemerson is hopeful that the River Trail can be viewed in a positive sense. The National Resource Commission granted the Parks Department a grant to take the River Trail from Cavanaugh Road to McGuire Park. This project has financial cooperation from the county in the amount of$182,000 matching funds, $300,000 from the Park millage and we will submit a grant application to MDOT for $520,000+. We have already received one grant that is a cooperative grant with all of those agencies that totaled more than$2,000,000. This is a$1,300,000+project that takes the trail all the way to McGuire Park and the final step would be to the Hope Soccer Complex. There were 160 projects and only 72 were funded and only 52 development projects, which we were one. Murray expressed his disappointment that he was not able to attend the November board meeting to see the MSU Crew team presentation. He also indicated his disappointment that the crew team does not spend more than a week with the kids in the summer. This is not what they agreed to when we made the agreement with there to use the facility. They promised to do programs with the kids. A request was made to the Board President to have a sub-committee of the board meet with the crew people and see if we can be more specific in what we would like to see them do in the coming summer. A sub-committee will be formed and Jemerson will set up the meetings with the MSU Crew. It was recommended the meetings take place off the MSU campus and take place only with the crew people. Kibbey said he would like to see on the next board agenda an opportunity to designate funds for small projects, less than$2,000. An example would be a wild flower garden. This could be used as incentive to get neighborhood groups more involved in their parks. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie rown, Interim Park Board Secretary Approved January 11, 2006