HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008 Park Board Minutes PARK BOARD MINUTES
January 9, 2008 cu U
Letts Community Center JJ
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Patrick Murray, Brian Smith, Dusty
Fancher, Cynthia Ward, Paul Carrier, Tina Houghton
MEMBERS ABSENT:
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Parks and Recreation; Don Ballard,
Interim Deputy Director/Golf Manager; Emily Stevens, Lansing
Parks and Recreation; John Pollard; A'Lynn Robinson, Council
Person
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Kibbey stated he was contacted prior to the meeting if the Marina was on the agenda. The
Marina was not, but a resolution which does include the marina is in the packet. There has not
been discussion with our partners. Kibbey asked, with permission of the board, to pull just the
Grand River portion of the resolution; we will leave on Frances and Riverside Parks.
Jemerson added that Emily Stevens, Parks employee in charge of kids' camps would like to do a
short presentation on Kids Camp '08 and how they will be run. Kibbey stated this would be
added under Updates.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
A representative from Friends of Historic Cemeteries stated she was there to monitor the process
for the funding for the memorial garden at Mt. Hope Cemetery.
The past commodore of the Lansing Boat Club stated they had been good trustees of their
charge, have spent their own money on tree trimming, lawn mowing, they obtained their own
permit to defend the bank and put in over a$1,000 to protect the bank. This has been done with
no assistance from the City; they have continued to do what the City has asked. He stated the
LBC has been presented with a non-favorable lease and he feels they deserve better.
John Pollard commented he wanted to go back to last month's vote regarding the South Side
Community Center and he fought the Parks millage renewal in '05 to resurrect a south side
community center. He stated his problem is that the Parks Department has been decimated, more
than any other department in the city, when it comes to budget. But he is curious to what it is
that has been done; he has been here during the budget process when the fight has been to keep
the golf courses open, last year it was to reinstate a Forestry worker, a senior programmer at
Letts and again to fund the golf courses for a full year. Now we are going to take $2.3 million
dollars and spend it to bring Hill up to code and then take another$1 million, from the sale of the
Lansing Center, and spend $750,000 on operations. Now there is going to be a programmer,
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 2
aquatic instructor, swim instructors and life guards. This is $750,000 the department has never
spent before and he is wondering where the money is going to keep coming from to pay for this.
He sees taking$2.3 million dollars from the sale of real property and it is gone in one year and
where is the money going to come from as the numbers of operation keep escalating.
BOARD MINUTES
December 12, 2007
Ward asked that on page 6, first paragraph the following statement be changed from
"...comfortable with his support"to "...comfortable with this draft report"
Tina Houghton asked to be removed as an absent member to others present as she had not been
sworn in yet as a Board Member.
Murray moved to accept the minutes with the above changes, seconded by Lott.
Motion carried. 8 yeas, 0 nays
NEW BUSINESS
Golf Operations
Kibbey stated this has been up before the Board a couple of times before and there will probably
be discussion in this upcoming budget on golf issues and the Board needs to be up to speed to
have a useful opinion.
Jemerson stated his intent is to go over this tonight, provide a power point presentation and the
Board can decide whether or not to formulate some kind recommendation.
Jemerson stated the direction the Administration wants to go on Waverly Golf Course is to
operate it under a management agreement or as open space. The department concurs with
direction on the following statistics provided in the board packet.
Jemerson referred to the power point presentation and provided the statistics for the history from
1989 to 2007, which included fee rates, rounds played, and percentage of change in rounds
played. In the 90's we were getting an average of 30,000-35,000 rounds of golf played; in 2001
we raised the rates and rounds went down to 24,000 and remained there until the rates were
raised in 2006.
Jemerson explained the slide on revenue versus expenditures. Revenue includes greens fees,
equipment rentals, concessions and power cart rentals; expenditures included direct costs,
administrative costs and the City's allocation plan.
Kibbey asked if it was accurate to say the administrative costs is for within the department to run
the program and the City allocation is an assignment of city wide cost assigned to this program.
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 3
An example of city wide costs would be building maintenance, city attorney, etc. City allocated
costs are not assigned to other recreation programs. They are allocated to enterprise funds; the
general fund it is not listed as a budgetary item.
The golf course became an enterprise fund in 1989. There has been cosmetic work on the club
house, the well pump was replaced about three years ago and a new parking lot, but no major
improvements have been made.
Jemerson stated the direction for the Red Cedar Golf Course is to re-develop the golf course
working with the Ingham County Drain Commissioner to do something similar to what was done
at Groesbeck. There are several options for re-development, but it will be recreational.
Ballard stated Groesbeck is about at one-half the staff of what a privately owned course would
have for a regular staff level. It is about the same at the nine-hole courses; we do not have an
over abundance of staff. Sycamore has two seasonal employees, Waverly has one full time
employee who is a greens keeper and two seasonal employees; Red Cedar has two seasonal
employees only, Groesbeck has one full time employee, four seasonal employees and one lead
greens keeper stationed at Groesbeck, but who travels.
Jemerson continued through the power point presentation explaining the rates and comparison to
other area courses, fees and expenses; Lansing fees are above the average in the area.
Jemerson stated a proposal would be to decrease the rates back to $13 for nine-holes. The theory
would be to reduce the cost, which would increase the number of rounds and would increase
revenue.
Kibbey stated there are a couple of underlying questions; do we, from a policy perspective, feel
the need to provide golf opportunities and to whom and at what cost. This is a lot of discussion,
but the fundamental question is do we think this is an important thing to do; if we do, we look for
a way to do it and if we think it is optional, we do with out it. Also, does the Parks Department
provide golf opportunities to somebody the market doesn't; sure. Kibbey asked who is the
market that we serve, that others do not.
Ballard responded about half of the golf customers are residents of Lansing. We use to have
more non-residents and he thinks that has changed partially because we are no longer seen as a
value in the golfing business in this area and those that live outside of Lansing may not decide to
play Lansing,but to travel around.
Kibbey stated the discussion in the past has been as long as we don't sell it, we are willing to
look at it; we were not in favor of selling park land, but if there is park land that is
inappropriately held, that proceeds from that would be used to replace park land in the vicinity of
where the park land was sold. When we applied this to Waverly two years ago, we were willing
to look at re-purposing, contracting it as golf or also as green space for everyone's use. With the
options we have before us, the direction for Waverly seems to consist with what we suggested
before; we retain ownership and try management with someone else or re-purpose it. The plans
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 4
for Red Cedar appear to making it suitable to build land,which would involve a sale and will
most likely create controversy. The reason Red Cedar is held is because it is in a flood plain,
and he would be curious to see how the flood plain would be dealt with. Groesbeck Golf Course
is a very attractive feature of the City and he thinks what is being asked is to come back with
ideas for improving Groesbeck.
Kibbey asked if there is time for the Board to review the material, think through the options and
come back to the next meeting with ideas.
Jemerson stated there is time; it is down tonight as an action item for the Board to take an action
and make a recommendation regarding golf. He wanted to start early on this this year and begin
now with the Park Board. There is some time for this issue, we could hold a special meeting to
deal with just this and he could have the finance department come in to explain the cost
allocation plan. This is a budget issue every year and whether or not it should be in the budget;
from our stand point it is a legitimate cost and is a part of doing business.
Kibbey asked the Board Members if they wanted a special Board meeting or discuss it at next
month's meeting.
Carrier commented there has to be a special meeting, and he would like it within a month.
Ballard commented he believes by resolution, if fee changes is what is being considered, by
February 1 a resolution would have to go to Council for action for the upcoming season.
Lott commented he thinks we have statistics that show raising the fees has not produced the
desired result, and as a board member he would support the idea of lowering the fees and getting
the number of golf rounds up. He doesn't know if it will make a major difference on the overall
financial picture, but he thinks it will get more people playing the courses. If we have to decide
something before February 1, he would like to hear what other Board Members have to say or to
make a motion to at least suggest that be looked at by the Department and Council.
Murray asked Jemerson and Ballard what their recommendations would be for fee changes; it
appears they are recommending Groesbeck would go back to $13. Jemerson stated Red Cedar is
being looked at as being redeveloped as possible storm water drainage and a smaller executive 9-
hole; if that is the case we would be looking at a different fee system for a executive 9-hole.
Murray asked what if Red Cedar stays the way it is, what would be recommended as fees.
Jemerson stated they would recommend lowering fees. Murray asked Ballard what he would
recommend what the fee would be for Red Cedar. Ballard stated two years ago the Park Board
made a fee recommendation to Council which was a modest fee increase, however Council's
action added $2 more dollars which then made it a$3 increase. If we look at what the Park
Board recommended two years ago, everyone would be comfortable; Ballard stated it would be
$8 at Red Cedar, $9 at Waverly and $13 at Groesbeck.
Fancher asked if the Mayor's direction for Red Cedar is to not open it this year, so they can start
the drainage project. Jemerson stated discussion would be started now with the drain
commissioner; however there has not been any discussion.
Park Board Minutes—January 9,2008 Page 5
Murray moved the Park Board forward to city Council a recommendation for fee changes at golf
courses; $8 for nine holes at Red Cedar, $9 for nine-holes at Waverly and $13 for Groesbeck.
Supported by Lott.
Fancher asked if this means we will not have a special board meeting. Kibbey said it does not.
Kibbey asked if the Board wanted to say something about keeping Red Cedar open, regardless
whether or not you go ahead to plan, as there does not seem to be an urgency to close Red Cedar
at this point.
Lott said his part of the recommendation is it would not become involved in development or
major changes this calendar year.
Kibbey asked if this was a friendly amendment or do we want to keep it to just fees. It was
decided to keep the recommendation to just fees.
Ballard stated this needs to be addressed as a fee package because we have different rates; $13 is
a standard nine hole rate and there are discounted rates as well. If we elude to the approved fees
the Board made in 2004/2005, which would be what we as a staff would recommend to the
board.
Murray asked to remove his previous motion and made a motion the Park Board forward our
recommendation to City Council that the fees charged at the City courses is as recommended in
the 2005 Park Board recommendations. Seconded by Lott
Fancher asked for a copy of the old resolution before the next meeting.
Motion carried. 8 yeas; 0 nays
DNR Trust Fund Grant—Frances Park Boating/Walking Access Program
(Five Year Recreation Plan—Resolution)
Jemerson stated at the last Park Board meeting the Board went through the process of selecting
some CIP projects and we talked about the fact about setting money aside for a DNR Trust Fund
Grant. It was decided there would be a meeting, which was held at Ron Theisen's house, and it
was decided the grant should be to put in boating and walking access in the area so residents can
walk safely to Frances Park. Jemerson stated he needed the Board's ok for this and amending
the recreation plan to include this project, as well as a project that we might get to in the future;
Riverside Park.
Kibbey commented with permission of the Board he would take up "C" of new business first.
The Board should put this in the plan first, before we authorize it. There were initially proposed
three changes to the five year recreation plan; we have had conversations with others about the
elements of this, but not the necessary conversation for the Grand River Park. With permission
this will be struck from the resolution and amend the recreation plan regarding Frances Park and
Riverside Park and omit the Grand River Park portion from the resolution.
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 6
Kibbey stated on the resolution before us he would move to strike the addition relative to Grand
River Park. Seconded by Fancher to omit Grand River Park from this resolution.
Motion carried. 8 yeas; 0 nays
Kibbey stated what we are now considering is the additions relative to Frances Park and
Riverside Park.
Murray asked for clarification on the amounts for each project.
Jemerson stated we would be applying for a$500,000 grant for the Frances Park portion.
Kibbey clarified there were originally three separate projects and now there are two.
Murray clarified the Frances project is for the walkway for pedestrian access that has been
discussed and not just a walkway to the boat docks. Also, at Riverside Park he verifed this
would be to construct parking and seating areas in what is now green space. Murray also asked
if the Board had seen drawings of this; Jemerson replied they have not.
Kibbey stated the reason he reversed the order on these items is because we do not have anything
in front of us.
Jemerson stated when the five-year plan is put together, we do not have drawings for the capital
improvement schedule; we go on concept.
Jemerson stated the parking lot would be located at Riverside Park at the end of MLK and
Moores River. At this time we do not know where the parking lot would be or how big; but at
this point and time we see this as opportunity for expanding fishing and boating along the Grand
River.
Murray stated his preference would be to separate these two items.
Kibbey asked if the Board does not mind we will separate and make two recommendation
changes.
Murray moved to separate these projects into two resolutions; one relative to Frances and one for
Riverside. Seconded by Fancher.
Motion carried. 7 yeas; 1 nay
Murray moved to support the Frances Park portion of the revision of the five year master plan.
Seconded by Lott.
Motion carried. 8 yeas; 0 nays
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Pate 7
Lott commented he has the same reservations about a large parking area at Riverside Park. He
would like to have it as part of the plans so the plans may be reviewed and we can express our
concerns if there are some at that point.
Lott recommended and moved to add Riverside Park to the master plan revision. Seconded by
Fancher.
Jemerson stated the Board will have the opportunity, if this is brought back to move forward on
this, when we talk about budget for future year to say yea or nay to providing a local match for
this project to support it as a DNR grant project.
Kibbey advised there will be two looks at it; one will be a budget look and the other will be a
plan look.
Murray advised everyone they were voting to add something to the five year plan that includes
language saying there will be a parking lot. This is not just, we can look at this and change it
later, but this will be part of the five year plan that there will be a parking lot at this site.
Fancher commented she respects Mr. Murray's opinion on parking lots, especially paved parking
lot,but right now at Riverside Park people are parking on the side of the road, which is a
nuisance and a safety issue. We have parking lots in our parks so people can come and enjoy the
parks and knowing she can vote on this again she will support this.
Kibbey provided roll call on this motion:
Lott - yea
Murray—nay
Smith—nay
Fancher—yea
Ward—yea
Carrier—yea
Houghton—yea
Kibbey—yea
Motion carried. 6 yeas; 2 nays
DNR Trust Fund Grant
Kibbey stated he thought what the Board was authorizing here and what was just said; is that we
would get a chance to look at this as a budget item in the CIP tonight. He asked when the Board
would get the opportunity to see the details of a plan.
Jemerson replied we could probably produce a conceptual drawing for Frances by the next Park
Board meeting. The application is due April 1.
Kibbey stated the Board is authorizing Jemerson to prepare a proposal and we will vote at the
next meeting on the proposal before the Board.
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 8
Jemerson advised the Board he would need to go to the five pre-approved landscape/architect/
engineering firms select one and have them put together a conceptual drawing.
Ward commented she was on the periphery for Frances Park and that process took several
months and she questions whether this could be done by the next Park Board meeting.
Jemerson commented this would be a conceptual drawing of a boat docking facility and a ramp
going up the hill and along the street.
Ward asked if the Board was being asked to vote on a conceptual drawing.
Jemerson stated there would be more facts; how many boat slips, how long it will be, and type of
construction.
Murray moved to authorize Jemerson to put a conceptual drawing together with close
collaboration with the Friends groups. Seconded by Lott.
Motion carried. 8 yeas; 0 nays
OLD BUSINESS
CIP FY09
Kibbey stated there was a reemergence of dual recommendations. The way he understands it is
staff has a couple of issues they would like to bring to the Board's attention for consideration.
Jemerson commented he wasn't sure it would be dual recommendations, but to look at it as a
clarification as to what was done at the last Park Board meeting. Members did the sticker
exercise and also wanted to do a grant proposal. However, when adding it all up and the
$350,000 is added in for the match it brings it well above the amount we are assuming we may
get, which is about $1.5 million. Jemerson stated he made some recommendations in terms of
what we might do so that we can have the $350,000 match to move this project forward. His
recommendation was instead of$100,000 for citywide maintenance it would be$50,000; instead
of$100,000 for River Trail maintenance dropped it to $50,000. This was done knowing we have
balances currently in our accounts (carry forward). The Toro grounds mower of$65,000 is
being proposed out of the City's CIP fund, not Park millage. The Forestry tree plantings he is
recommending it be put in as a budget item in the City's forestry budget. The Fratcher
Foundation match funding would come from FY10 or if it is immediate we look to our citywide
repair and maintenance to provide matching funds. Jemerson stated these are his
recommendations how to adjust this and include the $350,000 local match to move this project
forward.
Jemerson clarified these are all recommendations to Mayor, who puts in his package and gives it
to City Council. Then there are several hearings hosted by Council to say nay or yea to these.
Jemerson stated the Board would have the opportunity to make comments at the budget hearings.
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 9
Murray commented he would be in favor of reducing the Davis Park Trail line item by$65,000
and switching it to the Fratcher Foundation match. Smith seconded this.
Kibbey commented this was a 3-step process; the first was within Davis Park which would also
connect the South Side Community Center, the second part was to connect the whole complex to
the rest of the neighborhood along Pleasant Grove (which she was doing with transportation
enhancement money from Public Service), the third step was a south side trail in the Consumers
right-of-way that connected three additional parks.
Kibbey provided role call on this vote:
Lott—nay
Murray—yea
Smith—yea
Fancher-nay
Ward—nay
Carrier—nay
Houghton—nay
Kibbey- nay
Motion failed. 2 yeas; 6 nays
Fancher moved to reduce the second phase of the Gier gym expansion by$65, 000 in order to
retain the Fratcher Foundation grant match. Seconded by Carrier.
Kibbey provided role call on this vote:
Lott—nay
Murray—nay
Smith—nay
Fancher—yea
Ward—nay
Carrier—yea
Houghton—yea
Kibbey—yea
Motion failed either way. 4 yeas; 4 nays
Park Board Annual Report
Lott stated he incorporated a couple of minor changes, but because he did not have a lot of
direction in what the Board was to evaluate he has a couple more sentences that talk about what
has happened and the difference the Park Board made. He provided each Board member with a
copy of the revised report and what over the additions. Lott moved to submit this report as
submitted. Seconded by Kibbey.
Motion carried. 7 yeas; 1 nay
Kids' Camps 2008
Park Board Minutes—January 9, 2008 Page 10
Emily Stevens, Special Recreation Coordinator, stated she runs the drop in playground programs
throughout the City during the summer. She has a new idea for the playground programs, which
would be instead of 15 smaller drop-in sights there would be 4 large camps with free busing to
the sites. This would also us to get into more neighborhoods to get kids to camps, it would allow
us to provide the breakfast and lunch program, there would be more staff at each sight, programs
on Friday and a pre and post extended care program before work in the morning and at 6 p.m. at
night. This program would not cost more money, but would be a reallocation. There was
$101,000 budgeted in 2007, and this would cost approximately$99,000.
UPDATES
River Trail South
Jemerson stated it is progressing well.
Ranney Park—Score Tower
Jemerson stated there was only one company to put a bid in on this. The one company's bid was
$330,000 plus for the project and all we are talking about is a press box. This bid was rejected
and we are going back out to bid.
Meeting adjourned
Respectfully Submitted
Kellie B6wn, Interim Park Board Secretary
Approved March 12, 2008
I L-UEI LED
PARK BOARD MINUTES
February 13,2008 : 00
Gier Community Center _
No audio was available for this meeting. The agenda was void of action items and the
meeting was of informational status only.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Brian Smith, Dusty Fancher, Cynthia
Ward, Paul Carrier, Tina Houghton
MEMBERS ABSENT: Patrick Murray
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Parks and Recreation; Chuck
Theroux, Ron Wojack, Marilyn Wojack, John Wojack-Lansing
Boat Club; Tim Bogar and Loretta Stanaway-Friends of Lansing
Historic Cemeteries
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
BOARD MINUTES
January 9, 2008
Tabled until next meeting to provide Board Members an opportunity to thoroughly read minutes.
NEW BUSINESS
FY09 Budget
Jemerson discussed the general fund budget and stated there was a proposed $772,283 cut.
OLD BUSINESS
DNR Trust Fund Grand—Frances Park
Jemerson discussed the project and provide schematics of the proposed shoreline project.
Golf—Indirect Charges
Angie Bennett, Finance Manager, discussed the indirect charges associated to the golf courses.
Park Board Minutes—February 13, 2008 Page 2
Lansing Boat Club
Members of the LBC had questions regarding their lease. Jemerson was unable to discuss this
matter due to the current legal status of the lease.
UPDATES
Jemerson provided updates on the following projects: River Trail South, Moores Park Project,
Hunter Park Pool (March 13 bids are due in), Ranney Park (bid back, still checking).
INFORMATION
Copies of the Resolutions involving Golf Fees, Inflatable Obstacle Course & Climbing Wall
Fees, and Athletic Fees were provided to the Board Members.
An updated Board Member list wasp ovided to the Board.
Respectfully Submitted
Kellie Bro n, Interim Park Board Secretary
Approved April 9, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES ? ry
March 12, 2008
Foster Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Patrick Murray, Brian SmA','IJustyFanchier;`'
Cynthia Ward, Paul Carrier, Tina Houghton
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ron Lott(Excused)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Parks and Recreation; Don Ballard,
Interim Deputy Director/Golf Manager; Brett Kaschinske,
Manager Leisure Services, Lansing Parks and Recreation; Kathie
Dunbar, Council Person; Loretta Stanaway; Tim Bogar; Dan
Sorensen, Miracle of Michigan; Heather Chunko, Old Town
Commercial Association; Troy Stowell, Lifetime Sports
Coordinator, Lansing Parks and Recreation; Claude Ramey; Judith
Felice and Ron Theisen, Friends of Frances; Harold Leeman;
Jeffrey Friedle, Ledy Design Group
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Jemerson asked to remove the "Maintaining Lansing's Green Infrastructure"presentation from
the agenda due to the long agenda for the evening.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Tim Bogar from Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries provided an annual report to the Park
Board Members.
Judy Filice thanked the Board for supporting the Frances Park project and stated there will be
two public hearing, March 25 at Gier at 6:30 p.m. and March 27, 2008 (TBA).
BOARD MINUTES
January 9, 2008
Fancher moved to accept the minutes as submitted; seconded by Murray.
Motion carried. 7 yeas, 0 nays
February 13,2008
Minutes unavailable due to audio issues. Kibbey stated something will be done to put together
minutes. Ward commented action items are needed for February minutes.
NEW BUSINESS
Lansing Park Board Minutes —March 12,2008 Page 2
Grand Woods
Jemerson stated this park is administered by Delta Township and Mr. Friedle from Ledy Design
Group is acting on behalf of Delta Township and the Eaton County Drain Commissioner, Braden
Harrington, who has requested an easement through the park.
Jemerson stated he has forwarded this proposed easement to Public Service, they have reviewed
it and would the like the City Attorney to add a few things.
Mr. Friedle provided a map and explained the subdivision plat and how when plats were built,
storm drainage went into plats with no ownership assigned. Delta has been maintaining these
orphaned drains. The township is looking for someone who is better suited to manage the drain
system, which is the county drain commissioner. The township petitioned the county drain
commission and made application to create a drainage district.
Since the drain is already built, this is more an administrative process for the drain
commissioner. One oft t for-the a, s+ make r f ,.,,,.+ +,,.
b
a obtain the neeessaFy easements. One of the things the drain commission had to do was make
and describe an infrastructure and obtain the necessary easements. There is a couple of hundred
feet of Lansing Park land and the commissioner is asking for an easement from the City for the
south property line to the river.
The easement would grant the drain commissioner the ability to operate and maintain the drain.
Friedle stated at this time there is no major work anticipated at this time.
Fancher read through the language of the easement and the easement would constrain us from
putting a building on property we own.
Kibbey stated yes.
Friedle stated the width of the easement is approximately 50 feet on either side of the drainage
channel and this would not be an easement of the entire property.
Murray stated he knows of 4 different schools that use the park for cross country and he
wondered if this use would obstruct their use.
Friedle stated the nature of any work that would be anticipated would be the removal of
obstructions for the flow of water. The easement is for the legal right, as trees along the drain
get older, diseased, and broken, for the commissioner has authority to remove the obstructions.
Kibbey asked if we are to approve this in concept, the board would ask the City Attorney to
make sure the current use of the park would not be obstructed by the drain.
Murray stated his biggest concern is if there are plans for construction that it does not affect
anyone who uses the park.
Lansing Park Board Minutes—March 12, 2008 Page 3
Friedle stated he didn't think there would be any work done on the drain, other than removal of
trees for the flow of water.
Kibbey stated our current situation is there are no charges for this and do we want part of the
review of the City Attorney to make sure we do not incur charges.
Fancher stated yes, asked if there is any compensation for the City and later could we be liable
for a charge.
Kibbey asked if the Board wanted to send this to the City Attorney and bring it back to the board.
The Board agreed to this.
Fancher asked at the April Park Board meeting to add the following to the March minutes: If
this is allowed the drain commissioner can assess the drainage district for maintenance of this
drain, which they currently are not.
Hunter's Ridge
Jemerson stated this was on the agenda as an action item and Dunbar was interested in doing an
acquisition grant. We are allowed two grants, an acquisition grant and a development grant. It is
down for action, but the grant would be due April 1, but the DNR allows on acquisition grants
two periods each year, so this is being brought to the Board, but will probably go with the
August 1 deadline.
Dunbar stated last year there was a development proposal behind Hunter's Ridge. There are
condos and apartments that stop half-way to the river and the property was originally intended to
be developed to the river, but the developer ran out of money and the construction stopped half
way down the road. There are utility hook-ups.
The owner of the largest section of land tried to sell it last year to a developer with a contingency
of a PRD from the City. The density of the proposal made the neighbors oppose it. When the
option fell through, we talked with the neighbors and the DNR we realized this was in the city
limits and we could apply for a DNR acquisition grant and keeping it green space. With the
utilities there, someone could come in and develop it.
The value of the first parcel is at $750,000, second parcel is assessed at $250,000 with the house.
However, a couple had been victim to mortgage fraud and took out a mortgage in the amount of
$575,000 on the second parcel. The person, who sold the property, owned the property, acted at
the realtor, made the commission and made three payments on behalf of the couple, and stopped
paying. The couple who have the mortgage are no in foreclosure. Countrywide has a 12 month
redemption period, Fannie Mae is involved, along with Trott and Trott Attorney's for
Countrywide who is willing to release the couple.
This would connect the corridor along the river with Fulton and Fine Parks.
The DNR requires a 25% match from the City, however the City does not have 25%, so we have
negotiated with both parties that own the property that the piece the DNR gives them will satisfy
LansinIz Park Board Minutes—March 12, 2008 PalZe 4
the purchase and the other 25% will be considered a donation in trust to the City as park land and
we won't have to put in a match.
Kibbey stated the Board would not be doing anything on this tonight, but would look forward to
seeing more on this later.
Building Use Policy
Brett Kaschinske, Manager of Leisure Services, stated the Building Use Policy changes have two
goals, better clarification to staff as to what groups fit in the policy and which do not. We still
need to meet with the City Attorney for clarification on religious and political groups and how
they can use the community centers. The second part is the update of the fees, which was last
done in 1997. Kaschinske stated he would get a strike out copy to the Board at another meeting.
Page 6 has probably the biggest change, which are the rates. We established resident rates, non-
resident rate and non-profit rate. Resident rates means the group must be 75%residents.
Board members commented the copies they have the rate columns rap around and are difficult to
read.
Kaschinske reviewed what groups would not be charged, which are City of Lansing programs,
meetings, programming partners who meet the needs of the department and neighborhood
organizations that are recognized by the neighborhood council.
Kaschinske pointed out the definitions for non-resident, resident and non-profit groups. The
non-profit rate is less than the resident rate. Basically there is a$5 difference between resident,
non-resident and non-profit. Beyond normal business hours will have a higher rate to cover
overtime expenses. There are also additional charges for AV equipment, kitchen, clean up, etc.
Section B is for Turner Dodge, which has different rates and requires insurance, depending on
the use because of the age of the house and inventory.
The original base rate of a room was $10, but we added a non-resident and a non-profit. The
current fees were flat rates no matter what.
This is a 10 year old policy and staff is asking for more clarification on group useage.
Kibbey stated the Board would like to see copies at the next Board meeting, one with staff
changes and one with attorney changes.
OLD BUSINESS
FY09 CIP
Jemerson stated there have been changes to the CIP list. The Trust Fund Grant match had been
put in as an estimate and C2AE stated they could engineer this without the entire board walk and
do more of an asphalt path, so instead of an $850,000 project it is down to $659,684. This is the
Lansing Park Board Minutes—March 12,2008 Page 5
Frances Park waterfront improvement project and we are required to put in 25%, but if we put in
30%match we will receive more points. Our match would be $197,905, instead of the $350,000
which was estimate. So from this project alone, we have $152,095 to re-distribute. Also, we had
voted to put in $50,000 to Delhi Township, but they are not going for the grant. This gives us
$202,095 to re-distribute. Jernerson also stated we have a couple of guests who are interested in
this process and getting into the city wide playgrounds and we will hear from them later about
their wish for a playground in Old Town at Brehnke Fish Ladder.
Fancher stated she had put together a proposal for the Board to consider. This proposal makes
sure we would fully fund the Gier gym expansion, the Toro grounds mower and Forestry tree
planting happen. It takes the balance of about$42,000 and puts $21,000 it into the city wide
repair and $21,000 into the RiverTrail maintenance.
Kibbey asked is this was a motion. Fancher moved to accept the proposal, seconded by Carrier.
Murray asked Jemerson his opinion on the proposal. Jemerson stated he thinks it is great.
Motion carried. 7 Yeas 0 Nays
Jemerson reminded the Board and audience this is the Board's recommendation; this does not
mean this is it. The Mayor will look at the recommendation; put it in his budget package which
goes to City Council. There will be numerous budget hearings and Council votes the second
week in May, then there will be an allocation of funds.
Heather Chunko from the Old Town Commercial Association stated there is no playground
equipment at Burchard Park and they are trying to make the area family friendly. They would
like the City to provide funds for playground equipment and they would like to match city funds
by fund raising, from local businesses, etc. They have done research on playground equipment
and have found Miracle of Michigan does community builds where they will come in and work
with volunteers to put the playground equipment together.
Dan Sorensen, Miracle of Michigan, stated Miracle would supervise the volunteers to safely
install the playground equipment. Miracle has scheduled 31 Saturday community builds; it is an
inexpensive way to install equipment and builds great for community pride.
Sorensen is a certified playground safety inspector and is certified by the National Playground
Safety Institute and required to take a text every three years. He is also certified by Miracle as an
installer. When the equipment is installed and done the City will receive a letter stating the
equipment is installed according to manufacturer's specifications and meets all consumer safety
guidelines.
Liability of the City for volunteers can be handled two ways; the City Attorney can draw up a
hold harmless agreement or you are volunteering and are covered under the city umbrella policy.
Sorensen stated Miracle has provided a plan of what would be within the group's budget.
Chunko stated there is a ten member committee made up of residents and business owners who
are putting this project together.
LansinjZ Park Board Minutes—March 12, 2008 Page 6
Jemerson asked if Miracle took responsibility for liability. Sorensen stated Miracle would
perform an inspection and sign off that it is installed to specification for all warranties.
Kibbey asked the Board if they would be interested in seeing this project on the playground list.
The Board would, as long as it does not remove a current playground from the repair list.
DNR Trust Fund Grant
Jemerson stated he is required, in regard to making amendments to the Rec Plan, to advertise in
the paper that we are going to be revising the Plan and post dates of Public Hearings.
Administrative Charges to Golf
Don Ballard, Golf Manager, provided information to assist the Board in understanding the true
costs of golf and city expenses assigned. This information provided a history of expenses,
percentages, etc for each course.
UPDATES
Archery Program—Public Hearing at Council on 3/17 at 7 p.m.
Hunter Pool—Bids are due in 3/13
River Trail South—Two bridges are set
Moores Park Project—LAP has project design and it should go out to bid soon
Ranney Park Score Tower—Contract being reviewed by Mayor's office
Meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Kellie rown, Interim Park Board Secretary
Approved April 9, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
April 9,2008 —.
Letts Community Center .J
MEMBERS PRESENT: Patrick Murray, Brian Smith, Dusty Faucher, Cynthia tVd;d;Paul Carrier,�Tiila-
Houghton, Ron Lott(arrived at 7:50 p.m.)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rick Kibbey(excused)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Lansing Parks; Judith Filice,Friends of Frances; John
Wojack and Ron Wojack-Lansing Boat Club; Loretta Stanaway, Tim Bogar-
Cemetery Friends; Brett Kaschinske, Manager of Leisure Services; Melissa Quon-
Huber-Averill Woods Neighborhood Assoc; Tom Truscott-River Park Condo;
Shirley Merry Murray; Dorothy Jones.
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:10 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
None
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Loretta Stanaway commented on the budget for the cemeteries and she is glad to see the seasonal workers on early
for Mother's Day and Memorial Day.
Tim Bogar stated on May 17 the Friends would be planting flowerbeds at the entrance of the cemeteries, handing
out geraniums and he provided copies of the Friends March minutes.
Judith Filice thanked the Park Board for their support of the Friends of Frances Park.
Shirley Merry Murray and Dorothy Jones provided information on events at Moores Park for the park's 100th
celebration.
BOARD MINUTES
February 13,2008
Murray moved to accept the minutes as submitted; seconded by Faucher.
Motion carried to accept the February minutes as submitted.
March 13,2008
Murray moved to accept the minutes with the corrections as indicated; seconded by Fancher.
Motion carried to accept the March minutes with stated corrections.
NEW BUSINESS
Frances Park"Plan B'
Jemerson stated New Business A and Old Business C can be dealt with together and could it be addressed later.
The Board agreed to deal with it together under Old Business C.
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Page 2
Neighborhood Communication Strategy
Melissa Quon-Huber stated as neighborhood leaders we are pledging to make sure that communication from here-
in-out could be increased,this is an opportunity to communicate with each other and other entities in the city. They
are in the active process of surveying membership as to which way they want to go internally and to reach out.
They plan to include a calendar of events that people in the community could access to get information out and into
the community. She stated today the emergency sirens went off, so she called the fire station to learn it was a test.
She asked if there was a way to let people know and the Fire Department suggested talking with your
councilperson. This is an example of not having a way to communicate and get the word out. Quon-Huber stated
they are working on all the systems to get communication to residents. One of things we have in the City is when
there is a variance requested or a make safe or demolish, neighbors in the area are automatically notified through
the Assessor's database. If the databases can be combined,that would be a way to get information out
automatically.
Fancher stated this is a great idea and would be easy for the Board members to see what is happening everywhere
and provide opportunities to families that may not know what is happening. She stated there are list serves that can
be used for communication.
Quon-Huber also mentioned having a link to Survey Monkey to provide real tallies, opposed to subjectives.
Jeinerson asked if they have now a regular meeting set up of block club presidents around the city.
Quon-Huber stated they do not have regular meetings, but they have meetings called by the LNC.
Smith asked for the Park Board to be notified with regular updates as this process progresses.
OLD BUSINESS
Building Use Policy
Brett Kaschinske, Manager of Leisure Services stated this policy was last revised in 1997. There are two points to
this revised policy; one is to provide clarification for staff when reviewing facility use request and to change the fee
structure for our rooms at the various facilities.
Fancher asked under section 3, insurance is mentioned for Turner Dodge House only, but later in the documents it
mentioned another facility that may have alcohol. Kaschinske stated if it did, it would have been Scott House and
we are trying to remove Scott House from this policy.
Jemerson stated the additional copies he handed out were copies the City Attorney had modified. The"pretty"
copy is the copy the Board should be looking at.
Smith passed the gavel as acting Board Chair for this matter. Smith stated he had a serious concern and asked
about section 5a fees and have there always been fees.
Kaschinske stated there have always been fees for the rooms; changes have been to add non-profit fees and adjusted
what programs are free and what are not. Programming partners that meet the needs of the Parks and Recreation
Department, as far as a programming partner and any Lansing neighborhood organization recognized by the
Lansing Neighborhood Council would be free.
Smith stated he belonged to a group "Citizen's for Better Lansing"and asked if they would be charged?
Kaschinske stated under the current policy they would not. Under the current policy if you are non-profit and 75%
of membership resides within the City it is free. This has caused some issues with political and religious groups, so
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Page 3
we have made some changes and this is one of the areas. Not being recognized by the LNC,this group would be
under the non-profit.
Smith asked why the fees were implemented. Kaschinske stated we looked at area market of community centers
and also for clarity to staff as to who is charged and not. The whole non-profit and residency rate was not easily
interpreted by staff when requests come in.
Fancher stated recently the Board deliberated over the impact of increased fees at the golf courses and decided we
needed to lower the fees to remain attractive as a facility. She is not sure if increasing fees for our Parks and
Recreation sites wouldn't continue to drive people away.
Kaschinske stated our comparisons were done to East Lansing and Delta and with the proposed fee increase
Lansing would still be less.
Faucher stated under section 4 "ongoing meeting community room reservation" it stated groups would be notified
in 25 calendar days, and it now states "in a timely manner". What is a timely manner? Kaschinske stated if there is
not a problem,they are usually notified within a week. If there is a gray area that the request needs to come to him
or go to Mr. Jemerson it could last longer than a week.
Houghton asked if we turn groups away. Kaschinske stated we do not turn people for space usage;the only
problem we usually run into is whether their program belongs in our center and conflicts with our own programs.
Smith asked for public comment. It was asked when the rates would take affect. Kaschinske stated it would need
to go to Council and be adopted. This is not part of this year's budget package; it will be held and dealt with
separate of the budget.
Murray moved to approve the `Building Use Policy" changes; supported by Ward. 5 yeas 2 Nays(Smith
and Faucher)
FY09 Budget—General Fund, CIP Schedule,Fee Increases
Jemerson stated in the board packet is the budget that he works with;this is the budget to start July 1, 2008.
Jemerson explained the Administrative accounts and what is included in the amounts. There are three columns;the
first is the Mayor's proposed, the second is what the department submitted as to what is needed to continue at the
level we currently are and the third is the difference.
The next page is the 13 series, which is Oak Park. Jemerson explained the staff positions and salaries associated
with the positions. Equipment rental and maintenance is in the budget for when we go to O &M and Central
Garage for equipment rental and repair, since we no longer have mechanics at Oak Park we pay these departments
for our equipment.
The 20 series will be eliminated since there are only 2 line items and moved into the 21 or 22 series.
The 21 series is Oak Park for salaries for Dykema, Cahill, Fucciolo and the hourly wages for staff. The $30,000 for
trees has been moved over to CIP.
The 22 series is more of Oak Park and included salaries for the two supervisors, grounds crew and seasonal workers
and operating expenses.
The 30 series is for Leisure Services administration, miscellaneous and operating which includes the guide and
postage.
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Page 4
The 31 series is the Community Centers and includes salaries for programmers, and temporary help. On the line
items that are missing, are the salaries for the Southside Community Center and will be added into the 31 series.
Contractual services are for individuals who are hired to put on programs that we advertise in our guide.
The 32 series is the Lifetime Sports section and includes the supervisor, coordinator, part time clerk and temporary
help.
The 33 series is Special Recreation Services and includes two coordinators,temporary help for kids camps,
swimming pool, and life guards. The miscellaneous operating, Todd Martin Development Fund and contractual
services had little change.
The 34 series is what used to be the custodial staff, which has been centralized and we now have a charge back.
The 36 series is for Turner Dodge and includes the curator's salary and temporary help; it also includes the supply
account.
The next series is for Fenner, which does not have a Naturalist salary listed but does have temporary help. This
also includes the supply account and contractual services. Jemerson stated at this time we are looking at options to
operate Fenner.
The 38 series is the school based programs, which includes a full time coordinators salary which has been voted
into the South Side Community Center section. It does still include temporary help, contractual services and
operating expenses.
The 55 series is the Ice Rink and includes 31%for Jason and 50%for Don Ballard as their salary is divided
between the ice rink and golf courses; it also includes 3 maintenance workers hourly wages.
The 56 series is Common Ground and includes overtime for salary and hourly employees.
The 70 series is the Kids Camp program which is funded out of the Parks Millage for 5 sites.
The Mayor has proposed $9.4 million compared to our requested $8.6 million. The Mayor's proposed is inflated
since there is over$750,000 additional dollars for the South Side Community Center. The big issue from the
General Fund is Fenner.
Jemerson stated lie did also attach the CIP list. Also attached are the proposed fee increases, which are based upon
the market and other recreation providers in the vicinity.
Faucher moved to table the budget until next month when the enterprise budget is available. Faucher then removed
her motion.
Murray asked what role the eliminated position at Fenner has had in the line items. Kaschinske stated the TEA
staff does the educational tours and activities. Murray asked how we are going to run tours. Jemerson stated they
are looking at working with Woldumar and MSU for programming at Fenner. There will be a meeting with Friends
of Fenner and the Woldumar Board.
Ward inquired if the proposed fee increases were only a few of the programs and how it is determined what gets a
fee increase. Kaschinske stated all the classes listed are done by our TEA staff and are determined by the market,
the trips are affected by bus costs and gasoline,the softball fees was determined by market and the team managers
agreed, also the length of time since the last increases.
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Page 5
Carrier inquired if he wanted to know what the income was from the ice rink could it be provided. Jemerson stated
he could provide revenue information.
Ward asked if camps are at capacity. Kaschinske stated aviation camp is, the kids camps are not, if necessary we
add additional staff at the kids' camps.
Carrier asked why the City has an expense on Todd Martin tennis. Kaschinske replied we do not. Expenses and
revenue must be separated; revenue which is from user fees and subsidy from TMDF tennis cover all expenses.
Ward asked if the department receives in-kind services for some of the contractual services. Kaschinske said yes,
the MSU Extension program does a cooking class and we do not pay them or charge the kids.
Fancher moved to table the budget until the next meeting and do the budget as a whole. No second was made.
Smith asked for a motion to give Mr. Jemerson recommendation for this portion of the budget. Carrier moved to
support this portion of the budget, supported by Lott.
Fancher commented she appreciates the fact Murdock has outlined these items, however she does not feel in less
than one hour she is prepared enough to make a recommendation;therefore she will not support this budget tonight.
Murray stated without the Fenner Naturalist position he could not support this budget.
Motion carried to recommend this portion of the budget with 5 yeas,2 nays.
Fancher commented the Parks Department has reached out to the Senior Softball individuals that the fee is
increasing and she hopes the department has reached out to the Master's 50+basketball, Sand Volleyball people
and she thinks it is ironic to be adding to new programming at Fenner when we do not have a Naturalist.
Redistribution of DNR Grant Match
Jemerson stated the grant was not approved to be submitted so we have this dollar amount. He would like to see
this money left where it is to fix the safety issue of the Cambridge to Frances Park walkway, as well as provide
expanded boating and fishing opportunities.
Tom Truscott is the President of the River Park Condominium Association and this project would be in front of
them. At the time of this action he was in Arizona and would call back to retrieve his messages. On March 27
there was a message from Council member Wood about the public hearing and indicated the plan was to put boat
slips and a fishing dock in front of the condominiums. He contacted the secretary of their board and another board
member and within a few hours they generated a number of e-mails to council members. On Sunday before the
vote he spoke with Council members Wood and Jeffries to see if they could get the votes to table. He was not
aware of the urgency of the plan and he had not been told what was in the plan. He attended a meeting on October
23 which was by Public Service about curb and gutter, he also attended a meeting on November 27 about the
roadway and what was going to have to be done with parking in front of the condos and they were opposed to that.
This was a fast acting piece of action, and then he heard the request for the grant was turned down.
Truscott appeared at a City Council meeting and spoke in regard to their association putting over$1,700,000 into
property taxes and they were not permitted a voice. They had not been contacted that this action was going on until
he had received his messages. They are for this, but he is not in favor of putting the boat docks and fishing dock in
front of the condominiums. Truscott stated he walked the whole area with Mr. Jemerson and until today he was not
aware there was a piece of land down where Moores River Dr and Mt. Hope met. When he saw the area today and
realized it would be a natural fishing area he realized it would be a great spot. He is also for the path that would go
from Cambridge and making the turn for walkers and the area for the natural fish area and up into Moores River
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Pate 6
Drive. He would also like to see gates at each end so that it could be secured at night. Also, where the fishing and
parking are now, put a platform similar to what is across the river.
Smith inquired about the e-mails received concerning"riff-raff'and Mr. Truscott indicated that was one member.
Jemerson stated lie is coming in with this like lie does CIP projects and his recommendation is to keep this in the
budget as it currently is so we could reapply for this grant. He believes this has great merit and now we have the
condominium association's support for this project.
Lott asked if there was a time before a year from now to apply for this. Jemerson stated no we would need to apply
April 1, 2009.
Lott asked what would happen to the money. Jemerson stated the money would remain there, if the Mayor and
Council go along with this the money is there to submit the grant.
Fancher clarified for Mr. Truscott the vote was to make an amendment to the Parks 5-year Master Plan and submit
the grant. Councilmember Woods, Jeffries, Hewitt and Robinson voted no to amend the 5-year plan to allow for
submitting the grant.
Smith asked Jemerson if he had an alternate list of$197,905 worth of projects.
Murray stated he has not seen any conceptual drawings of this project. A board member provided a copy of the
drawing and Jemerson explained the project to Murray.
Fancher stated she had received a voicemail from Councilmember Hewitt that he was not going to write the Board
with his comments and the voice mail was as follows:
Sunday March 30 2:50 p.ni.
Voiceinail Message to Dusty Fancher by Councilman Eric Hewitt
It has been transcribed by Dusty Fancher to the best of her ability.
Good Afternoon, this is council man Eric Hewitt I nz following up regarding the Tuesday meeting at the Gier
Center uh in relationship to the Public Service Board Meeting er to uh Public Service Committee meeting
Umm I wanted to make sure that I followed up with the questions that were asked unfortunately due to some
illnesses and technical difficulties we are not going to be able to get these answers out to you in writing by Monday
hence this is the reason I am following up by phone.
The first question was on park pathway maintenance. Currently there is only$80,000.00 being identified as
pathway maintenance for the river walk, unz based on that we have not been given any information as to whether or
not there will be requests for increased funding to maintain this part of the park or the parkway uh as far as snow
removal
Second question was unz how were the council members going to be voting
Unfortunately it is illegal for us to poll prior to the deliberations and or a vote so there is no answer can be given
for that question.
Question was also was this part of the project for moving the road, meaning uh Moores River Drive. The answer is
No. The project for the moving of uh Moores River Road is part of a Public Works project that is already approved
and is in the design and bidding stage.
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Page 7
Question was asked whether or not this uh pathway would handle truck weight, a trucks weight? The answer to that
is the design will be such that standard maintenance vehicles will be able to drive on the roadway, and not fire
trucks or ambulances, as the uh question as the question was posed during the meeting.
The question was posed whether or not there will there be lights and/or signs at the crosswalk. Currently the
project plan only identified signs at the crosswalk, if lights are needed they could be added at a later date based on
meetings that we will have at that time
The last question was will there be uh rest areas along this pathway? This is part of the River trail series and we
will be adding umm appropriate rest areas as part of the design as we continue the river trail series.
Hopefully these answer the question that were asked at the meeting for you. If you have any further questions feel
free to give me a call back at my office phone number is
413-4181
Fancher commented she feels the public spoke clearly to Council that they wanted to approve this amendment to
the Parks 5-year plan and feels that Councilmember Hewitt did not listen to the public that took the time to come to
the public meeting to support this project. Councilmember Hewitt was being asked to amend the 5-year plan and
he voted against public safety. She appreciated the phone call, but everyone at the meeting was promised a written
response. Maybe Councilmember Hewitt,as a freshman councilmember, does not completely understand
maintenance of the River Trail as a scheduled event and it is put into a cycle. In the meeting he was not asked how
he was voting, but if he supported the amendment. Finally the question regarding truck weight and the pathway she
felt was ridiculous. She stated she does support leaving the money in for the project.
Carrier commented his daily duty has him interacting with elementary and middle school kids that interact with his
program in leadership law and government and he is pleased that we did not have these youth present at the public
forums, because whatever the leadership of the Council was for having the meetings as a public forum and not
listening to the public is an injustice
Lott stated he is in favor of leaving the project in place,but is nervous about$197,905 sitting around for 12 months
without someone feeling it could be used for something else between now and April 2009. Maybe it is not a
realistic concern, but he is a little apprehensive about going with Jemerson's suggestion although overall he would
hope the project would happen.
Carrier moved to leave the money in place for the DNR grant match for the next fiscal year. Supported by Fancher.
Ward stated she supports leaving the money,but what happens after this.
Jemerson stated right now in the Mayor's budget presented to Council two Monday's ago,this project is in there for
the$197,905. Because it was moved by Council not to allow this project this year,there is a possibility this money
could be re-distributed. The Park Board makes recommendations to the Mayor and the recommendation in this
motion is to keep things as they are so that we can apply April 1,2009 and there won't be the issue that
Councilmember Hewitt raised about are we binding the Council with an expenditure that has not been voted on yet.
If this is done now in this matter,the argument won't hold as this will be adopted in fiscal year 09 and we will be
making the grant request in fiscal year 09,so the money will already be budgeted. The Master Plan issue will still
be there and we would present a similar resolution that would amend the Master Plan and allow us to move forward
with this grant application to the DNR.
Ward stated her specific question is if we agree as the Board that this should be there and it is our recommendation
to the Mayor,who makes the determination for re-distribution? Jemerson stated the Board's recommendation to
the Mayor is this money not be re-distributed and stay where it is and the Mayor makes his recommendation to
Council. Council can hold the public hearings, and someone can say they don't agree they want to use the money
for something else and it may become discussion at council's public hearings. Jemerson stated this is a
recommendation, but it is the first step.
Park Board Minutes—April 9,2008 Page 8
Ward stated she is in support of this, but is very concerned about what could happen with this.
A question from the public was asked, in regard to the safety issue at Frances, why this couldn't have been done by
public service or public works separate from the DNR.
Jemerson stated it would be too costly to do this piece alone. We are looking in the interim, if this passes, is to do
some safety measures at Cambridge with signage.
The motion carried to leave the S197,905 in place as is. 7 yeas, 0 nays
Golf Update
Jemerson stated May 1 is the deadline and more information will be available at the next Park Board meeting.
UPDATES
Hunter Park Pool—The contractor is in the phase of getting bonds together, and we hope in the next week to have a
pre-construction meeting for the project. It is still on line as far as the schedule to open in August.
River Trail South—This project is proceeding well and the deadline is September. They have installed three
bridges,which can be seen from the Soccer Zone.
Ranney Score Tower—The same contractor that is doing Hunter is doing this project and in about a week they
should be set to start their paperwork. They won't start the project until after May 15 when the current programs
end.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted �--
Kellie Bkown, Interim Park Board Secretary
Approved May 14, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
May 14, 2008
Gier Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Brian Smith, Cynthia Ward, Paul Carrier-, Ron Lett,i ii J 1�
Tina Houghton (arrived at 7:20)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Pat Murray (excused), Dusty Fancher (excused arrived at 8:30)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Lansing Parks; Loretta Stanaway, Tim Bogar-
Cemetery Friends; Don Ballard, Manager of Golf Operations
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Jemerson stated he would be removing the Grand Woods easement from the agenda since this does
need an Act 285 review. This process will add about a month to the process and he has advised the
Eaton County Drain Commission representative of this. The easement is in the attorney's office for
review.
Jemerson also stated the Mayor is interested in forwarding the name of the late Monica Dungey to have
the community room at Hill named in her honor. Jemerson stated there is a process, but we do not have
a form. We usually have people come forward with the recommendation and the criteria for their
nomination. The Memorial Review Board may no longer exist.
Jemerson recommended we create a form for memorial nominations.
Kibbey asked to have information submitted for this matter at the next board meeting.
Kibbey added under Old Business where we ended up in the budget and under Updates where we stand
with the Lansing Boat Club.
Smith requested a thorough update from the Director on the Dog Park.
Smith presented two letters that appeared in the LSJ and will be added under Correspondence.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Tim Bogar complimented the Park Board and Director Jemerson on the Hunter Park hoop house and
what a fantastic project it is.
Loretta Stanaway mentioned the geranium give away this Saturday at Mt. Hope, Evergreen and North
cemeteries. They have increased the number of geraniums to 200. They will also be planting flower
beds at the entrances of the cemeteries.
BOARD MINUTES
April 9, 2008
Ward moved to accept the minutes, Smith seconded with the correction of Shirely Merry to Shirley
Murray.
Motion carried to accept the April minutes as submitted. 5 yeas; 0 nays
Park Board Minutes — May 14, 2008 Page 2
NEW BUSINESS
Westside Cell Tower Expansion
Jemerson stated this is a request for additional space at Westside for the existing tower. There is an
additional company that wants to be attached to the current tower and each time this happens we
receive additional revenue. Carol Munroe in our office tracks all of our leases, is really good at tracking
these and receiving the money from them. Jemerson commented he doesn't see a problem with the
additional space and he could have Ms. Munroe at a meeting to explain the funding received. This
request would add $2,000 a year to the existing contract. If the Board does not have enough
information, he is willing to postpone this until next month.
Smith commented his has concerns with one of the a-mails that states the current contract has not been
fulfilled.
Ward asked if the amount being offered is consistent for land this size and for this purpose.
Kibbey stated we looked at competitive rates and determined we were in the ballpark and were receiving
a decent return.
Kibbey would like to look at what we did in the past before proceeding and he would like a forester to
look at the tree where they would like to put the generator, which would require a cement pad.
Carrier moved to table this until further information is available and questions are answered. Seconded
by Smith.
Motion carried. 5 Yeas 0 Nay
Property Issues
Jones Lake
Jemerson indicated he has yet to meet with the broker to verify the amount of property, but it is a church,
parking lot and additional lot west of the parking lot. This is right on Jones Lake and he sees it has a
great opportunity to acquire the property; knock down the church, take out the asphalt and make it
natural with non-motorized boat facilities and boat ramp. This could possibly be done with a DNR
acquisition grant that would be due in August.
Ward asked if the acquisition grant would require a match. Jemerson indicated it would and he believes
it would be 25%; and revenue received from cell tower leases goes into an account for land acquisition
and could be used for this property. Jemerson encouraged the Board Members to take a look at the
property.
Kaynorth Park
Jemerson stated if you go down Joshua Street and there is a piece of land that has been assigned to the
Parks Department, but it is useless to us. It is fully forested and there is a Consumers Power right-of-
way. This piece has nothing to do with Kaynorth Park and Jemerson wondered about offering it to the
neighbors.
Kibbey asked if this property is connected to Kaynorth Park and if it is it would be part of a dedicated
park. Kibbey asked Jemerson to check if this is part of the dedicated park.
Stanaway commented it appears to be part of the park, kids play in the area, and they ride bikes and
snowmobile. It is also a vibrant wildlife area. It is also her understanding a section of the pipeline is
Park Board Minutes — May 14, 2008 Page 3
designated to go through the area, as well as Councilmember Dunbar wanting to put a walking trail
through the area. Stanaway stated the neighbors are against the walking trail.
OLD BUSINESS
FY09 Enterprise Funds
Ballard stated in terms of revenue, our process to deve►op projections for the next fiscal year is to utilize
the history of our program revenues.
Jemerson reviewed what was included in the packet, which included a chart of percentages indicating
where our money comes from and what those percentages consist of. Jemerson also reviewed the
individual sections of the department, actual revenues and projected revenue.
Kibbey asked what the total budget is, minus the Parks Millage. Jemerson replied it is $8.4 million.
Ballard explained the ice dome revenues are from hockey programs, figure skating programs and group
rentals.
Carrier asked if Washington could be expanded to be something like Suburban Ice.
Ballard replied it could, but would be very costly because you wouldn't be able to utilize the dome. The
dome is air inflated, so you can't have water because of the air pressure. In order to attach to a building
outside of it you need a series of air locks. It is recognized as a good practice facility, which is what was
intended when it was given to us by GLAHA. Currently we are working with an organization from
Chicago to increase our school usage and figure skating.
Jemerson stated included in the enterprise funds are our municipal cemeteries and the projected
revenue is dependent upon continued burials.
The golf courses have reduced revenue due to the closure of Waverly and Red Cedar.
Jemerson stated the budget process is still not complete. Council has voted on the budget, but the
Mayor has three days to do line item vetoes. The $200,000 that was removed from the CIP program is
to open two golf courses, but during budget hearings we stated to open Red Cedar and Waverly an
additional $600,000+ would be needed and that was not addressed.
Kibbey asked how much of the $600,000 was for each course. Ballard commented Waverly would
require $350,000 and Red Cedar would be $250,000. This would be for maintenance and staff.
Jemerson stated he has yet to hear what the Mayor intends to do with the two courses. The grounds
crew has put the courses into their mowing rotation and the green at Red Cedar are being maintained.
Until we have been told not to, we will continue to maintain the greens at Red Cedar. The Mayor has
sent out letters to a number of local units of government and agencies; we received back two responses.
One was rejected due to lack of capital and the other letter was from the First Tee program; however
they are not interested this year, but possibly next year depending on how their program progresses.
The First Tee Board is pleased with the results on their first session of the program.
Carrier asked if First Tee would be interested in a fall program with the school district. Ballard stated we
are always for opportunities and the First Tee will be in the schools as part of their outreach program.
Carrier mentioned to call him personally to expedite the process.
Park Board Minutes— May 14, 2008 Pane 4
Jemerson stated the thought of First Tee taking over Red Cedar is a good one in that they need a
revenue string. They would not have the overhead we have; they could hire college students to do
maintenance and would not have the expenses we incur.
Kibbey asked if there is a working driving range at Sycamore.
Ballard stated yes there is; the area which used to be the front of the course is a short game practice
area. The artificial tee has been installed, the target greens will have material installed next week and
the full driving range is from the building south. There are two practice holes in the very back of the
course bordering Scott Woods. The driving range is open and running and is working exacting as was
hoped for when it was re-designed. What used to be the golf course flooded this spring, stayed wet, but
the driving range has been open continuously since April 10.
Kibbey stated he would like to see this information in a report, because Sycamore and Red Cedar were
both developed in a flood plain and it is a mistake to say the golf course is flooded. We are allowing the
flood plain to be a flood plain and the area designated as a driving range is staying drive.
Ballard stated the signs are up designating the environmental easement area and the biologist indicated
the area is coming in spectacular and will be a great habitat.
Kibbey stated every year on Neighborhood Night Out, the Sycamore Park Neighborhood comes together
for a picnic and that would be a great place to tell the story because there are a couple hundred people
there.
Jemerson reviewed the cemetery revenues and expenditures and the items we charge for which are
grave openings, makers, other services and the columbarium at Evergreen.
Kibbey inquired about operational transfers and the perpetual care fund and where is the perpetual care
fund located in the budget.
Ballard stated it is located in revenue and expenses; 15% of lot sales go into the perpetual care fund.
The account is updated by Finance every six months, but he is not aware of the balance.
Kibbey stated he would like to know how much is in the account.
Jemerson provided a list of the golf revenues and expenditures.
Frances Park
Kibbey commented in the April minutes it stated the funds for Frances Park were to stay in place. He
thought it would be a good idea to go ahead with the Master Plan revisions instead of waiting to the last
minute, so when the grant is up next year we are already done with the Master Plan.
Kibbey asked if it requires any Board action to re-submit the request for the Master Plan revision. He
stated it sounded like the condo association looked at the proposal and agreed it was ok.
Jemerson reiterated the Board is asking him to re-submit the resolution to amend the Master Plan.
Houghton asked, if as a Board before we re-submit, should we talk with the neighbors and as a Board
did we do what people are saying and not include the neighbors.
Kibbey stated there were months of conversation.
Park Board Minutes — May 14, 2008 Page 5
Jemerson stated Councilmember Hewitt is Chair of Public Service and wanted two public hearings on the
Frances project, but we are only required to have one public hearing. Council provided their own public
relations for these hearings, but the problem was no one from the condo association was at the
meetings.
Kibbey recommended an open meeting on this proposal.
Carrier commented because we were going so quickly it looked like we were trying to slide things
through, but we had support behind this. We should include the neighbors and open the process early
so there is time provide answers to their questions.
Lott moved to have Director Jemerson resubmit the Master Plan revision for the Frances Park project.
Supported by Carrier.
Houghton commented she feels we are still trying to shove this at people; she is not familiar with policy
for holding public hearings and should be we get input at our next Board Meeting and then ask Murdock
to proceed.
Kibbey recommended we have individual discussions with three or four people who are key to this
project.
Jemerson stated we were not to trying to shove anything through, but there were other issues the Mayor
was dealing with on this with the Lansing Boat Club. Everyone saw that you couldn't move these forward
without getting some resolution to the boat club issue, because the Mayor was still interested in doing
something at Grand River Park. However, once that was cleared up that we were not going to put in an
application for Grand River and when that decision was made it was March. Jemerson commented he
couldn't move forward with anything until that decision came forward, which made it late and Council
wanted to do the public hearings in a matter of two weeks.
Carrier commented that having an open forum, over time we can address questions and if there is a
misunderstanding we can defuse misconceptions.
Motion carried. 4 Yeas 2 Nays (Ward, Smith)
Lott recommended we hold a meeting with the key players and then a public hearing. We would talk
about it more in June; hold a public hearing in July and then the second part in September and October.
UPDATES
Hunter Pool
Jemerson stated it is under construction. They started Monday with the removal of the fence and cleared
the trees to accommodate for the expanded patio area. By contract they have 90 days from Monday to
get the project done and by August we should be able to open the splash pad and weather permitting the
pool.
Dog Park
Jemerson asked what the Board Members have heard about this. Smith commented he has heard it is
designed wrong, not set up right, there is overflow, not enough room and more. Houghton commented
she has heard about the smell. Carrier commented he has heard about the noise.
Park Board Minutes — May 14, 2008 Page 6
Jemerson stated the park runs along Ruth Street. There are approximately four homes on the south side
of Ruth and when we talked about doing this park the Friends did a door-to-door survey; at the time the
residents generally did not have a problem with it. After opening in October and the overwhelming
success of the dog park, it even caught the County off guard. The County had approved 30 parking
spots at Hawk Island, which turned into almost 70-80 cars coming into the park with their dogs. The
County had to close the parking for the dog park on the weekends in the summer due to lack of space for
pavilion rentals, and made an agreement with Ingham Regional to park on that side on the weekends
and for special events. With the success of the park, the barking has gotten out of hand and the
residents are tired of the barking and people yelling for their dogs and were at the point they were ready
to take legal action.
Jemerson stated the President of the friends group is a professional mediator and she suggested we talk
with the neighbors through mediation and go through this process with the Mediation Resolution Center
of Lansing. We engaged them and they contacted the neighbors; we had a mediation meeting, which is
binding between the two parties. There were three representatives from the neighbors, meeting with
myself, President of the Dog Park, Jerry Ambrose, Willis Bennett from Ingham County and another
Ingham County representative. We went through the process, were divided into two groups and we
knew we had to make changes and the dog park could not exist as it is. We put together a plan for
change, the mediators took the plan to the neighbors and they agreed. The plan changes the design of
the entrance/exit, moves the dog activity to the northwest corner, and eliminates the total loop.
We met with the dog park users, approximately 55, which was facilitated by the conflict resolution group.
They asked three predetermined questions: 1) Best part of the park, 2) What are the challenges of the
dog park, and 3) What would you like to see for the future of the dog park? By the end of the meeting
users empathized with the neighbors and everyone was ready to move forward.
Fenner
Jemerson stated the budget resolution was to take $15,000 and give it to Friends of Fenner. We are
allowing Friends of Fenner to oversee programming at Fenner. We will be meeting with the Fenner
Board to discuss this; Councilmember Dunbar has taken a real interest in this. We may also include the
operating account and contractual staff monies.
Fancher asked if administration is willing to give this money as a one time or annual commitment.
Fratcher Foundation Grant
Jemerson indicated he submitted a grant request to National City, and they will have a meeting on May
22 to review the proposal. Jemerson stated he asked for $82,000 this time, which is more than the
normal $65,000 and is for the basin project. Phase one was hiring DLZ, the architectural firm; Phase two
was taking care of the preliminary site preparations; and Phase 3 ($82,000) is for utilities, irrigation
system, flower bed planting, fountain, benches, urns and columbarium. We have in next year's budget
the match of$65,000 for this.
Ingham County Park Commission
Bob Moore has retired and Willis Bennett is serving as the interim director.
River Trail South
They are starting to paint, the boardwalk is done, the bridges are in and we will start planning the grand
opening.
Park Board Minutes — May 14, 2008 Page 7
Lansing Boat Club
Has a court date for May 16.
Correspondence
Smith passed around letters to the editor that appeared in the Lansing State Journal as follows:
"Engage on Parks—I have had enough since the recent letters to the LSJ. Blame has been cast
against councilmember Brian Jeffries, Carol Wood, A'Lynne Robinson and Eric Hewitt because they
failed to support applying for the Department of Natural Resources grant. We should look at how the
Parks Department and Parks Board play in this issue: It is their responsibility to engage the public in
discussions long before it comes to City Council. Were invitations or meetings held at the condo
association to hear ideas and concerns? No! Was there talk about these boat slips when the road
project was discussed?No! In casting blame, let's start from the beginning and understand some
members of City Council responded appropriately. If concerns had been addressed earlier, we would
have been looking at a application to the DNR. It is now the responsibility of the Parks Department and
Parks Board to engage these neighbors. Jason Miller, Lansing."
"All parks—from Wainwright to the skateboard park— belong to the people, but the Parks Department
policy has been to not only engage the users of the park, but the neighboring community, for complete
buy-in. This failed with Frances Park. Carol Wood, A'Lynne Robinson, Brian Jeffries and Eric Hewitt are
not to be blamed for the downfall of a grant application. Shame, shame, shame. The parks board has
been discussing this since December 2007. The parks board is made up of at-large and ward members.
Why? Because they are to be in contact with the community. Were they? No. There were two groups of
neighbors— one involved with this grant application and another group, which was part of changes to the
park that was in their backyard. Consider all, not just a few,"
Remarks by Board Members
Lott commended the Park Board, Director and staff on the high ranking the City received for the River
Trail.
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Kellie Browh, Interim Park Board Secretary
Approved June 11, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES =
June 11 2008
Foster Community Center
l rJ r 1
t _
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Brian Smith, Cynthia Ward, Ron Lott, Pat Murray=: _
MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Carrier, Dusty Fancher, Tina Houghton c_ri
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director Lansing Parks; Loretta Stanaway, Cemetery
Friends; Don Ballard, Manager of Golf Operations; Bob Trezise, EDC; Eric
Hart, LEPFA; Brian Anderson; Kathy Dunbar; Paul Dykema, Forestry/Ground
Manager; Robin Sackevich, Greater Lansing Dog Park
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Kibbey moved the City Market presentation to the beginning of the agenda and asked for a storm damage
update.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Loretta Stanaway, Friends of Cemeteries, stated they gave away 200 geraniums on May 17; Kositchek's
and Smith Floral were sponsors for the event. They also planted flower beds at the entrances of the
cemeteries and will maintain them. They have taped their cable show and it will air Thursday on City TV.
The Friends have concerns about Mt. Hope Cemetery being closed and that one of the trees that came
down had been red dotted; which raises the question of how many trees that fell could have been prevented
if maintenance of the trees had been done.
Robin Sackevich, VP-Greater Lansing Dog Park stated the park is really busy and they would like to open
another dog park and would like to see Waverly Golf Course turned into a park since the amenities are
already there.
BOARD MINUTES
May 14, 2008
Murray moved to accept the minutes as written, Lott seconded.
Motion carried to accept the May minutes as submitted. 5 yeas; 0 nays
City Market Presentation
Bob Trezise, President of EDC, provided a sketch of the City Market and stated eight months ago they
unveiled a new city market located at the River Trail. The new market would not be open in the winter and
the current market would be torn down. During this time, it would be four to five months before vendors
could do business.
They have met with vendors, architects, neighborhood associations and other groups and have attended at
least thirty different meetings. Information and input from these meetings was helpful and resulted in a new
proposal for a year round facility with a kitchen incubator and outdoor booths.
It is still on the riverfront and would be a new centerpiece. The current market would not be closed until the
new market is open.
Park Board Minutes —June 'k _, 2008 Page 2
This project would also be open to the $3.2 million dollar Clean Michigan Initiative grant from the DEQ.
They have met with the DEQ and the architects understand the basis for building in a flood plain.
A development agreement has been reached between the City and the developer, Gillespie. LEPFA will
use each payment increment to proceed forward. The project will also be built under a project labor
agreement.
Ward asked if it would be the current size or could there be more vendors.
Hart said it would be 11,000 square feet. They have placed design layouts to give vendors an idea of what
they can do with their space. They have added thirteen new vendors recently and the current vendors will
be guaranteed a place in the new market.
The City will continue to subsidize the rent, but they would like to have the vendors become responsible for
their own electrical. The current utilities are over$50,000 annually.
Kibbey asked if there has been discussion to create funds for upkeep.
Hart stated there has been discussion with the developer and they are looking at making this "green" and it
will be a rustic design to minimize maintenance.
Murray asked how many existing parking spaces there are and how many are proposed. Hart stated there
currently are 150-180 and there are 60 proposed.
Kibbey suggested a power point presentation be brought to the Board for information.
Jemerson stated at a City Hall on the Road meeting there was a negative resident who was concerned
about cars parking on the River Trail.
Anderson stated there is enough of a barrier to keep cars off, except for farmers unloading and selling out of
their trucks.
Kibbey stated this seems to be an evolving process.
Ward asked if the surrounding area would be inaccessible during construction. Trezise stated he was not
sure and he would look at the situation.
NEW BUSINESS
Waverly and Red Cedar Golf Courses
Tabled until July when a representative from the Mayor's office could attend the meeting.
Memorial Policy
Kibbey stated the Memorial Review Board is being dissolved, which will bring requests back to the Park
Board.
Lott would like to table this until July to give Board Members an opportunity to look over the form.
Jones Lake
Jemerson stated there is a piece of land at Jones Lake to be donated to the Parks Department. The land
can not be built on and is a wetland area.
Park Board Minutes —June 2008 Page 3
Lott asked if this area would require additional maintenance; Jemerson stated it would not.
Kibbey asked if it would be dedicated park land and if there could be any contamination.
Jemerson replied it would be dedicated and that a Phase One could be done.
Kibbey asked for a phase one report and a draft resolution at the next meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
Hunters' Ridge Land Acquisition
Kathy Dunbar provided a draft letter providing an outline she had composed to the attorneys representing
Countrywide Mortgage.
Mr. Hill who has the mortgage on the property is desperate to rid him self of the land. Dunbar stated she
has a strong feeling they would receive the acquisition grant, which is due August 1.
There were 2 parties interested, but have backed away due to lack of a Council resolution. Dunbar has a
group of"good Samaritans" as she will refer to them, who are willing to take an interest loan on the property
until the grant application date.
Kibbey stated there are several issues on this and the grant application would provide answers to the
questions if the Board were able to see a draft of the grant application.
Kibbey asked when a draft resolution could be provided for review and the Board could have a discussion
about this project.
Dunbar would like to have it at the Public Service meeting next Monday.
Lott stated there are so many questions about this.
Dunbar asked if she could e-mail the resolution and get group e-mail replies by Board members.
Kibbey asked if this process would be ok with the Board.
Lott and Ward said they could try this process. Ward reiterated there are so many questions that need
answers.
Kibbey stated he would like to see group e-mail replies also.
Dunbar stated the grant application deadline is August 1 and the sooner this could go to Council, the
investors would move forward.
Kibbey stated Board members will see the resolution, and e-mail their conversations to each other. If Board
wants to take official stand on this, it would be at the July meeting.
Westside Cell Tower Expansion
Tabled until July and the Board requested Carol Munroe attend the meeting to provide additional
information.
UPDATES
Storm Damage
Park Board Minutes —June ,k _, 2008 Page 4
Dykema stated the first storm was Friday evening and was done around 1:00 a.m.; Saturday more damage
occurred, which went into Sunday and the Sunday storms brought through a tornado. As a result of the
storms, staff acted and responded quickly.
On Monday, Mayor Bernero declared a state of emergency. Police, Fire and Parks were able to work to
clear roads for emergency vehicles and roads were passable within 30 hours. Some debris was left until
daylight due to downed powerlines.
The City has worked out an agreement with Granger to allow residents to take debris to the Wood Street
location. Residents will need to show identification. Individuals who are out of their homes are being taken
care of.
There are over 200 workers available from the UAW, Transportation, Public Service and other departments
working on clean up. Park crews are working 16 hour days, 6 days a week.
Crews will take private brush that is at the curb and are working through the city. Some areas are so busy
with repair traffic that the area will be gone through later.
Mount Hope Cemetery has 30 to 35 trees down, with as many cracked. As funerals are scheduled, we will
send in inspectors to assure safety. Fenner trails will be gone through thoroughly, but the trails are closed
at this time. River trail through Elm Park has had trees ripped from the ground and is closed. Hunter Park
is being cleared to continue construction on the pool. Moores pool did open on schedule.
Murray stated there is a celebration at Moores Park planned for June 25; Dykema doubted the park would
be ready but would talk with administration.
Ballard stated they were able to relocate weddings from Frances Park to Cooley Gardens.
Remaining Updates
Fenner- Fenner Board is trying to find a way to replace the Naturalist.
Kaynorth - Kaynorth is dedicated area and can not be given to the neighbors.
Moores Park- Murray reported the labyrinth is in, but is not sure if the process is complete.
Hunter Pool — Construction is underway, storm damage could delay finish date.
Soldan Dog Park— Fence is down, mediation is done and resolution is made.
River Trail South — Equipment is at Sycamore to begin construction; however flooding is an issue right
now.
Correspondence
Ward distributed Council President Jeffries April report regarding Frances Park.
Information
Perpetual Care Fund — Balance is $1,603,593, ($1,590,000 of which is invested in CD's).
Stanaway stated if there is $1.6 million in the fund, then the wreaths should be put out and they haven't
been for 3 years.
Meeting adjourned aft 8:500 p.
Respectfully SubmitteT U tti
Kellie Bro n, Interim Park Board Secretary
Approved July 9, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
July 9, 2008
Letts Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Brian Smith, Cynthia Ward, Ron Lott, Pat Murray, Tina Houghton
(arrived at 7:20 p.m.)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Carrier, Dusty Fancher
OTHERS PRESENT: Don Ballard, Deputy Director/Golf Manager; Loretta Stanaway, Susan Ward,
Jesse Lasorda, Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries; Kathie Dunbar; David
Brown, American Tower; Kellie Brown, Interim Board Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m. ;
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
f i
None
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Loretta Stanaway commented she would like to encourage the Board to look at what is going bh in the City
and to look at the political hot buttons; golf courses, Lansing Boat Club, etc and realize Parks is under attack
by administration and could be dismantled.
BOARD MINUTES
June 11, 2008
Murray moved to accept the minutes as written, Smith seconded.
Motion carried to accept the June minutes as submitted. 5 yeas; 0 nays
NEW BUSINESS
Waverly and Red Cedar Golf Courses
Smith moved to table this topic until representation from the Mayor's office is present.
Kibbey stated this should have been addressed three months ago and will call the Mayor's office to talk
about administrations plans.
Murray stated he went by Red Cedar and it needs to be mowed. Smith agreed and indicated he had spoke
with Paul Dykema who said with the limited resources he has there are others things to be done and they will
get to this later.
Stanaway stated she saw the letter addressed to Council from the PGA golf pro who was interested in
managing the two courses and she does not know anything about him, but was not impressed by the letter.
The letter was poorly written, had misspelled words, and was grammatically incorrect. If his letter is any
indication of his skills, she would be leary.
Also, she raised the issue at the FOLHC meeting last week about the apparent, intentional actions by the
Mayor's office to destroy city park property in terms of the golf courses by ignoring maintenance and
upkeep.
Lansing Park Board MinutE -July 11, 2008 Page 2
Kibbey stated he hasn't heard from the Board that there has to be four golf courses, but he has heard there is
no interest in getting rid of park property.
Lott stated the Board is to advocate for Parks and Recreation opportunities for the citizen's of Lansing and we
are months into the golf season and we haven't resolved the issue and wishes there was more effort to
compromise. He is disturbed that in a city of 130,000 people, there is only one place to play golf.
Murray stated Kibbey has represented what the Board has said, but is concerned with Red Cedar being off line
because the nature of Red Cedar is the perfect course for young and senior golfers and who now may have
nowhere to go.
Susan Ward commented as a resident of the Delta-Waverly area, Waverly and Saginaw has become more
congested and the Waverly Golf Course was a bright spot, but has now become a mess.
Kibbey stated whether you think Waverly should be a golf course or not; it should be something.
Lasorda mentioned he is only two blocks from Waverly Golf Course and maybe the City could give it to the
County for another Hawk Island. Kibbey stated the county has shown little interest in the golf course.
Memorial Policy
Kibbey stated how this came about is that one time there was a memorial review board, which has been
abolished, which would now bring naming memorials in Lansing municipal parks, buildings, fields, facilities, or
an area in a park back to just he Park Board. Kibbey stated looking at the form submitted today, he recalls
there may be about four different policies for this and he hoped they were reviewed before this form was
submitted.
Ward asked who supplied the memorial form draft. K. Brown stated the form was derived from the
memorial review form and was changed to pertain to park memorials.
Kibbey stated he recalled in the Parks policy it was fairly strict consideration that someone had to have
done something in Lansing for the Parks. The form presented was more open.
Lott commented he appreciated someone had worked on this form for a starting point for this procedure.
K. Brown stated Jemerson had hoped a committee could be formed to work together to develop a memorial
policy/form.
Ward, Kibbey and Houghton volunteered to work on the memorial policy.
American Tower—Westside Cell Tower
David Brown, Senior Manager Midwest Service Division stated he met with Jemerson and Carol Munroe to
discuss the concerns the Board had. One of the main issues was a better grasp of revenues generated from
the tower rental. One of the other concerns was that the proposed expansion was to close to some trees.
Brown provided a power point presentation on the revenues and provided a new design that would not
interfere with the trees. American Tower owns 25,000 towers throughout the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Their business is to own the tower and sub lease sections of the tower to cell companies. This tower was
originally constructed years ago by Verizon and American Tower now has an agreement with Verizon to
manage their towers.
Brown stated once the deals were solidified on several Verizon sights they went to landlords to lease
additional space to expand the towers for other companies, Nextel, ATT, etc. In 2001 we made a deal with
Lansing Parks to lease extra space, in 2006 we renegotiated for expansion space for T-Mobile. Now we
Lansing Park Board Minutc -July 11, 2008 Page 3
have two companies who have come to us to expand and one of the companies, Verizon Wireless, would
like to have a generator at the sight. The other company, Metro PCS, has requested a 12 x 20 space, which
was the space to close to the tree.
Brown provided and explained modified drawings of the sight; drawing A was how it was originally proposed and
sketch B moved the space south and inward and changed the set up of the generator. Square footage is the
same, but it is re-configured to avoid the tree and root system.
Brown also provided printed power point information on generated revenue.
Murray and Lott both commented they appreciated they moved the expansion away from the tree.
Kibbey recalled two other questions being asked; one was any possible interference with use of the park
and the other was comparative returns.
Smith stated he could not support this until he has clarification that the prior amendment and commitment to
the contract has been fulfilled.
Brown stated that was not the issue when he met with Carol on Thursday.
Kibbey stated with saving the tree the question of recreation interference is resolved.
Lott stated the power point handout provided answers to the comparative costs.
Kibbey stated for internal purposes he would like to see some clarification this revenue is going into an
enterprise fund and see reports on a routine basis.
Ballard stated the money goes into the millage park acquisition and development fund. There is an account
there and we could get a breakdown. It comes in as revenue and is then transferred into the millage park
acquisition and development account.
Loft moved, pending verification of receipt of revenue from the last amendment, to support the proposed
new lease and changes for American Tower. Supported by Murray.
Motion carried
UPDATES
Fence Sale
Stanaway stated John Schneider ran a column two or three Saturday's ago and in the column it did not say
anywhere that the fence would be sold on a first come, first serve basis. She forwarded an e-mail to John
Schneider she received from Paul that had nothing in it about it being confidential or that the sale was a
tentative date. Schneider ran the information from what Murdock sent to Paul, Paul sent to Loretta and Loretta
sent to John, this turned out to be wrong. Julie was not going to be in the office on June 30, the date in the e-
mail, so the sale was re-scheduled to July 7. However, this date was not publicized and only people that called
or stopped at the cemetery office were told this date. The cemetery office opens at 8 a.m., but on Monday, July
7 at 6:50 a.m.Julie sold the entire fence to a gentleman from Ohio who was apparently going to sell the fence
on a-bay. There were people in line before 8:00 a.m. to buy fence, however this guy was there first and wanted
to buy all of it. Consequently there are a lot of people upset and they have contacted John Schneider and
there will probably be another article that is not favorable for the Parks Department.
Kibbey clarified with Loretta that she said the fence was sold before the office was even open and she
stated that is correct.
Stanaway stated there has not been any official word put out by the Parks Department at any of these
stages, and the information has been put second hand, through the grapevine with Schneider. There was
never a process in place to say if there was a limit of fence per person.
Kibbey stated if he understood correctly, this was the third time the fence was offered for sale.
Stanaway agreed and said the first time there was no public notice and Schneider ran an article on
Saturday stating people had until 3 p.m. Monday to have a certified form completed and submitted to the
purchasing director.
Kibbey asked isn't this whole process being run through the purchasing department and not John
Schneider.
Ballard commented the sale was advertised by all the methods the purchasing department usually does to
advertise their items for sale.
Kibbey commented what bothers him about this situation is that the fence was sold before the office was
open and that may not be in compliance with standard purchasing policy and there are lessons to be
learned from this.
River Trail South
Ballard stated they have paved behind the cemetery office, the berm on the golf course is done, but due to
weather the finishing touches are not completed.
Stanaway commented there has been substantial damage to gravesites during construction of the River
Trail. She will forward pictures to Ballard and Jemerson to follow up on this issue.
Hunter Park Pool
Ballard said the splash pad is proceeding and they are trying to have it ready for some use this summer.
Kibbey commented he hoped it would be ready for Day in the Park on July 26, which is being advertised.
Ranney Park Score Tower
Smith commented the cement has been laid.
Old Business Continued
Hunter's Ridge
Dunbar provided a draft of the resolution to board members. Dunbar was originally going to e-mail the
resolution out, however some changes and issues came up on the second piece of property. Apparently
there is a second mortgage held of the foreclosed smaller piece of property and they are not going to do
anything with that until they can clean the title and focus on the parcel owned by Henry Hill.
There is a buyer, they are working out the terms of the sale and if the closing date does not occur by the 1st
Henry will be listed on the grant application and when the closing occurs we will amend the grant application to
have the new buyers on the application. Dunbar provided a grant summary of criteria prepared by Deborah
Apostol from the MNRTF to the board members; this piece of property fits the MNRTF's criteria.
There is a piece of property in the same area that is owned by the Lansing Boat Club, but this grant is not
and should not be at anytime connected to the LBC. Apparently back in 1964 there was an agreement
between the City of Lansing and LBC that if the City ever exercised their right to build a road over it's
easement on the drain, which is where Holmes Rd. dead ends into Waverly; we, by municipality, have an
Lansinq Park Board Minutes —July 11, 2008 Page 5
easement and the LBC owns a 7-acre parcel, which is a Delta Township piece in the middle of City property.
DEQ has told them they will never be able to build on it and the city has no intention of building a road out
there. However, someone had asked if they could tie this acquisition of property to the building of the road in
case they lose the court case. Dunbar stated there is no way she is every going to go there. The title is clear
for the Hunters' Ridge piece and the house is on the 1.5 acre which is not going to be touched. There was a
PRD proposed which Council denied, because of access criteria. If we can not do the grant, Henry has the
property posted as commercial sale and development, the property is hooked up for utilities and someone
could build on it.
Dunbar stated they have come up with a plan to please the neighbors, keep the space green and give us
park land along the river.
Murray stated after the, Moores River Drive incident, he is concerned about what neighborhood groups,
associations and others who have a stake in this where they stand on the issue and if they have all been
notified.
Dunbar stated neighborhood groups have been notified and she is also walking around with bulletins. The
Lansing Eaton Neighborhood wrote a letter of support for the grant. The Averill, Churchill Downs, Pinetree,
Bridgeport, and Hunters' Ridge neighborhoods are in favor of the project. About eleven groups were at the
last planning meeting.
Ward asked for an explanation of the seller.
Dunbar stated Henry is about to lose the property. He has three offers pending by people who want to build on
it and then we have the offer from the ladies who are investing in Annabelle's Pet Station downtown (Good
Samaratians), who have offered to put up the money to hold the property until the grant comes through. The
grant application is written with Henry's name and if the closing takes place before August 1, the grant will be
with the women's name and if the closing is after August 1, the grant application will be amended.
Dunbar is taking this matter to Ways and Means tomorrow to get it out of committee and on the agenda for
Monday night, because we have to set the public hearing date of July 21 at the July 14 Monday night Council
meeting.
Kibbey asked if Public Service has to rule on this. Dunbar said when it is introduced Monday night; it will
typically be referred back to Public Service.
Ward asked Dunbar to go over the numbers again on this. Dunbar stated the City assesses the property as i
the current land value is $744,000, which is what our Assessor has for the value with the SEV at one-half that
which is what taxes are paid on. We will give them what we believe is the value of the land and we are askinc
for in the grant is 75%, which is $558,000 to purchase the property and the 25% match of $186,000 is ;
donation from the owner.
Ward asked if the match has to come from the City; Dunbar stated it does not, but we have to identify in the
resolution where the match will come from and commit to it.
Dunbar stated the grant is due August 1, they usually make a decision by December with payment probably in
September 2009.
Kibbey asked Dunbar what she would like from the Board.
Dunbar stated she would like the Board's support, but if the Board has questions to please ask them.
Ward stated in the Frances Park discussion we heard the park belongs to everyone in the City, not just the
people in the area and asked if in process is there something that requires notice go out to people who live
Lansinq Park Board Minutes —July 11, 2008 Page 6
within a certain area or something or does information go out city wide. Dunbar stated traditionally it is 300
feet adjacent to the property.
Lott moved to support the proposal as it has been explained to the Board and submit to the Mayor to
proceed with the grant application. Supported. 6 yeas; 0 nays
Motion carried
Ward asked if there is a sense of any negative comments. Dunbar stated she has heard nobody say they do
not want it green.
INFORMATION
Perpetual Care Fund
Stanaway stated with the amount of money in this account she is looking for the City to fulfill their obligation
under the special care fund.
Board Member Remarks
Murray stated the Moores Park Neighborhood Association wanted the Board to hear their thanks to
Murdock Jemerson and Brett Kaschinske for their help in the preparation for the Concert in the Park for
Moores Park 100`h birthday. The neighborhood will be holding a carnival this Saturday from 5-8 p.m.
Kibbey stated Saturday at Hunter Park there will Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet at 10:00. Dunbar
stated next Tuesday is the Ben Davis Master Plan meeting at Fire Station 6 from 6-8 p.m.
Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:
Kellie rown, Interim Board Secretary
Approved September 10, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING
July 31, 2008
Foster Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Dusty Fancher, Paul Carrier, Cynthia Ward, Pat Murray, Brian
Smith, Ron Lott
MEMBERS ABSENT: Tina Houghton
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Director, Parks and Recreation; Brian Anderson, EDC,
Eric Hart, LEPFA; Pat Lindemann, Ingham County Drain Commissioner;
CALLED TO ORDER: 4:00 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
.7 J
None
CITY MARKET ` '_--
When this subject was originally brought to the Board, there were specific concerns regarding tli'e plan.
One was what would happen if the market is in full swing with people outside and someone is trying to get
through. A by-pass lane has been integrated to alleviate the issue. Also, the first rendering had arrows with
a looping path around the market with spaces adjacent to the market dedicated for vendor parking only.
This has been changed because what was heard from people was the priority to get customers as close as
possible to the market and not the vendors. What was decided was a rivertrail staging area completely
blocked off by a gate from the parking area and a turn around. What perceivably would happen is someone
would pull into park and could back out or turn around and not do a complete loop around the park. There
are specific parking spots for vendors; one of the things from speaking with the USDA expert is there are
times when you have a farmer who sells one good for one or two weeks a year and wants to do it out of the
back of the truck.
The building itself has grown, when last presented it was about 11,600 sq. feet and is now about 13,200 sq.
feet. The current market is about 16,000 sq. feet; however the functional difference is better.
This building is in the 500 year flood plain, but the existing building also is in the 500 year flood plain. The
plans were taken to the DEQ, who has a flood plain specialist. They were shown where the flood plains
come in and they were satisfied with the plan. There have also been concerns from Council regarding
environmental contamination to park property. There have been preliminary samples of the park area, so
far so good; the samples are in the lab for analysis right now. The professional opinion from the consultants
is they saw no evidence of volatile or damaged compounds. They did not visually or aromatically detect any
contamination or fill material.
There has also been concern about the urban renewal grants used to form the current market however
those grants, which would have prohibited the sale of the land, expired in 1989. There were also concerns
about DNR grants that were used on Riverfront Park which mandated the operations of the park be
restricted to open air, outdoor only; those grants were used north of Shiawassee so they do not apply to this
area. There was also talk about the 1935 vote which moved the City Market from north of Shiawassee on
the west side of the river to the current site; this vote was under the terms of the 1912 charter and the city
charter was changed in 1977 and as a result we no longer had to put a vote to the people to move the City
Market.
It was clarified the property being sold is not park land, but the market is being moved onto park land.
PARK BOARD MINUTES —S ;IAL MEETING JULY 31, 2008 PAGE 2
This will be a four season facility.
There was a phase one and a phase two report done on the current City Market site. A phase one has not
been done on the new sight, but environmental samples have been done.
The current City Market site was dirty and the one million dollar grant from DEQ will assist with this. The
grant should cover 60 to 66 percent. When the application was written there was request for a $500,000
loan from DEQ, which is not being asked for now, but after the sale and some of the development planning
other sources of money to clean up the site will be discussed.
The developer is accepting the property as is and is responsible for the clean up. The City was liable for a
small chunk of the property, which may not even require clean up. Any additional contamination that is not
covered by the grant will be handled by the developer.
One of the other questions from the last meeting was in the course of development to not block the river
trail. This has been discussed with the architect and he does not see that it will be a issue and that it is all
about phasing. The by-pass lane will allow individuals on the river trail to go around the market.
Ward clarified the vote on August 11 is for the terms of the sale to Mr. Gillespie.
One of the concerns that has been heard, is the current City Market development agreement to sell to
Gillespie did not necessarily say he has to build the market, but what it does say is he can not build until we
finish our City Market. Gillespie can not tear down the current City Market until the new market is up and
running.
Signage is another issue; Museum Drive and Cedar would have signs indicating the market is open. Also,
for walking traffic there will be signage for the market.
Fancher confirmed this market would be built with the funds from the sale to Gillespie.
Kibbey proposed that park land being sold that holds recreational use be integrated into the park system to
enhance recreational uses. Moved by Murray, seconded by Lott.
Motion carried. 7 yeas, 0 nays
RED CEDAR GOLF COURSE
Pat Lindemann stated he was asked to speak about the Montgomery Drain and its potential impact on park
property and some other areas in the east side. Lindemann presented a map of the watershed area and
described the system. There have been Red Cedar watershed monitoring studies, which is quite extensive.
This is a man made river and east of Williamston it was hand dug back in the 1880's. It was called the
Cedar Drain Improvement Project of 1883 and hand dug the river from Williamston to Fowlerville. They
drained all the farm land and there are 336 county drains and 20 inter-county drains which dump water from
the Red Cedar Watershed into the Red Cedar River. Every drain has been tested and walked and the most
polluted is the Montgomery Drain, which is only 20% that is not concrete or road.
Lindemann provided a concept plan and stated it has been shared with a variety of different people
including Park Board members. The concept is to interrupt the flow and rebuild the drain to do a multitude
of objective outcomes that will be beneficial to everyone. He has met with the clean water action people
and they have taken this on as a state priority project. MSU students conducted a survey and the outcome
was the customers wanted to see Grand River Avenue rebuilt, the merchants wanted to see Frandor's
parking lot more user friendly, and the Frandor owners wanted to know the cost involved. The owners of
the Sears property and the owners of Dunhams property were ecstatic about it.
PARK BOARD MINUTES — S -'IAL MEETING JULY 31, 2008 PAGE 3
Lindemann went over the concept plan and explained the drains and flow of water. The golf course area
would be used to create ponds, water diversion, or water polishing. Lindemann stated it could remain a golf
course or be for other activities; however there will be ponds around it.
Lindemann stated there have been no decisions made on this; it is only brainstorming and concepts at this
point.
Lindemann stated this is a Chapter 20 drain and they operate with a single bill from the county to each
municipality, which would include East Lansing, the township, State Highway Department and City of
Lansing, who could then assess the property owners.
WAVERLY GOLF COURSE
Jemerson provided three different concepts prepared by Landscape Architect & Planners (LAP) showing
Waverly as a either an adventure park, a tiny town model and hobby park or a community park. These
concepts could be put together any way.
Jemerson asked what the Board would like to do with Waverly Golf Course. Lott stated the course is
embarrassing and there needs to be something done with it.
Fancher stated it is a shame to take a golf course that was well maintained and functional and let it go to a
point where it is ruined, just to force the Board, Council and residents to do something else with it. Also,
where would the money come from?
Carrier asked if the architects could come to a meeting. Jemerson stated yes.
Fancher asked if there were larger concepts in the master plan that this could be used for.
Kibbey asked for copies of the concepts for each board member to put their ideas on and for staff to project
income and expenses for these uses.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted:
Kellie Br wn, Interim Board Secretary
Approved September 10, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
September 10, 2008
Foster Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Cynthia Ward, Dusty Fancher, Paul Carrier, Brian
Smith, Tina Houghton (arrived late)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Patrick Murray
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Parks and Recreation Director; Loretta Stanaway;, Jesse
Lasorda, Tim Bogar, Phil Mannino, Friends of Lansing Historic C'temeteries;
Julie Mannino, Parks and Recreation Cemetery Secretary; Bob Trezise,
LEDC; Kellie Brown, Interim Board Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:08 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Kibbey added updates on North Cemetery and stated budgets will be before long and would like to have
budget meetings in October and get notice out to friends groups and in the paper. He would also like
recommendations from staff on park restrooms and better availability.
Fancher asked for an update on the Lansing Boat Club.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Bogar invited Park Board members to the annual cemetery tour. The FOLHC is close to filing their 501 c3
for grants and projects not in the budget.
Stanaway stated in the Mayor's proposed budget it appears Parks is taking the largest hit. She will provide
information on the basin under updates. The date is set for in October to survey North Cemetery.
BOARD MINUTES
July 9, 2008
Fancher moved to accept minutes as submitted, seconded by Ward
Motion carried to accept the July 9, 2008 minutes as submitted. 6 yeas; 0 nays
July 31, 2008 Special Minutes
Ward moved to accept minutes as written, seconded by Fancher
Motion carried to accept the July 31, 2008 special board minutes as submitted. 6 yeas; 0 nays
NEW BUSINESS
Election of Officers
Lott suggested appointing acting chair for elections.
Fancher nominated Kibbey for Board Chair. Fancher moved to accept nomination of Kibbey as Board Chair,
seconded by Carrier.
Lansing Park Board Minute, 5_eptember 10, 2008 Page 2
Motion carried to accept Kibbey as Board Chair. 0 nays
Kibbey nominated Fancher as Board Vice-Chair. Kibbey moved to accept nomination of Fancher as Board
Vice Chair, seconded by Ward.
Motion carried to accept Fancher as Vice Chair. 0 nays
City Market & Accident Fund (moved from Old Business)
City Market
Trezise stated meetings are held every Friday morning with department heads regarding the new city
market.
The first order was an agreement with LEPFA. The key to the agreement is the Park Board must approve
the city market. The architect will work with parks and LEPFA on the design. There will be further financial
mechanisms to enhance the park and the broad outline is a architect will be hired immediately by the
LEPFA Board and construction needs to commence by April 1. LEPFA is working on a business plan, a
firm has been hired to do a market survey and there will be an ordinance change regarding the location of
the market.
Accident Fund
(Secretary on phone with Mayor's office and audio unavailable)
Fancher asked about the article in the LSJ and about they may not go through with the project and what
happens to the funding.
Trezise indicated there is a lease between Accident Fund and Christman, they are closing with the City and
Christman on September 30. Worst case is the project is still built, but the scope and scale of the project
changes. Accident Fund would still acquire companies, but could they use BC/BS money.
OLD BUSINESS
Jones Lake
Kibbey stated there has been a donation of land next to existing park land at Jones Lake. He has looked at
the property and it is wetland that would not need to be maintained with mowing.
Smith moved to accept the Jones Lake property donation, seconded by Fancher.
Motion carried. 6 yeas 0 nays
Memorial Form
Kibbey stated the Memorial Review Board has been abolished and since most memorials are in parks,
reviewing requests for memorials in parks will come to the Park Board.
Ward stated her work on this was under original premise and if the Memorial Review Board is still place, the
Park Board would have no authority to change this.
Jemerson stated how these were handled with the Memorial Review Board is they would hold their decision
and refer it to the Park Board. The Park Board would make their recommendation to the Review Board and
the Mayor.
Fancher stated the park rules and naming of parks policy she had was dated February 10, 2003. Kibbey
stated there are more rules and policies for this and he would look for his copies.
Lansing Park Board MinuteL September 10, 2008 Page 3
Stanaway stated she just spoke with Councilmember Allen and the Review Board is not abolished and it
may be reformed.
This item has been tabled until a later date.
Monica Dungey Memorial Bench at Graves Park (New Business)
Kibbey stated he was hoping once the memorial policy was in place to use this memorial as a test case of
someone who has been an outstanding citizen in the community.
Jemerson stated this request came from Joe McDonald in the Mayor's office and either an old form or a
new form could be completed.
State of Michigan Historic Marker
Lasorda stated this started long ago and money had not been the issue, but the work involved. There
needed to be numerous photos to submit with the application, so they met with local people to gather the
history. Phil Mannino showed a binder full of photographs that will be submitted to the State along with the
application. The historic marker will be on the outside of the arch or just inside. The project is winding
down; everything has to be substantiated and burials proven, photos are completed and the text will be
submitted soon. The State will make the final decision on verbage and we would like to have the project
done by June 2009 to go along with the City's 150 celebration. They hope to have a national historic
marker someday as well.
FOHC would also like to submit for a second marker for section R for the 61 boys from the boys training
school.
Jemerson asked how this had been paid for. Lasorda stated the sale of the fence from Mt. Hope Cemetery
had provided funds for the marker.
Kibbey asked for the Board's support for the groups continued work to obtain the marker.
Fancher moved to support the group's efforts, seconded by Houghton.
Motion carried. 6 yeas 0 nays
Little Arlington
Jemerson stated at a Committee of the Whole meeting a gentleman had written a letter stating he wanted to
be buried at Little Arlington in Evergreen Cemetery. This was sent from COW, to Council and Council
wanted it to go before the Park Board.
J. Mannino stated Little Arlington was created in 1947 by Council and Ways and Means; it cost $7,500 and
was designed to have 126 full body burials. There was a US Federal program created for WWII vets to
have their burials paid for. It was revised in 1958 to squeeze in a marker only for lost soldiers. By 1961,
120 burial spaces were used.
It is full and if it was expanded by a few spaces, how would it be determined as to who deserves to be in
Little Arlington.
Kibbey asked if there is an area outside of Arlington to open for Veterans. Mannino stated there could be,
but there would need to be requirements. The area Mr. Sedgewick is proposing in his letter is green space.
Lansing Park Board Minute, September 10, 2008 Page 4
Jemerson stated he would need to go back to Council to explain Arlington is full and no further burials are
eXGeptable acceptable.
Fancher asked about how big the shrub areas are for use; Mannino stated they are not that big.
Kibbey asked for staff recommendation on the following: 1) Arlington is closed and why 2) Identify, if
possible, a place for ashes or plaques 3) Identify another location in the cemetery.
Fancher moved to accept Kibbey's recommendations, seconded by Carrier.
Houghton asked what the next closest cemetery is for Veteran's, which is Fort Custer.
Fancher stated even if staff comes back with there is not enough money, she thinks the Board
Motion carried to accept recommendations. 4 yeas, 1 nay, 1 abstain
Veteran's Memorial
The mother of Justin Smith would like to have a long standing monument erected in honor of fallen soldiers
of Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. This monument would also have spaces available to add
names of fallen soldiers. It would bean M-16 rifle with a helmet and boots on a marble or granite base.
Sam's Club will be a sponsor/donor for the project and will work with other donors; there would be no cost to
the City. There would need to be a suitable place at Evergreen to place the monument and rules would
need to be established regarding what ties to Lansing would be required to have a name placed on the
monument.
Budget
This will be discussed at the October 8 meeting at Letts Center. Kibbey asked for a property list from last
year and an overall project list.
Restroom Policy
Kibbey is looking for a recommendation from staff for a policy on park restrooms and their availability.
Fancher stated she talked to the Mayor about the restrooms being closed at 3 p.m. and people not having
access to the park restrooms.
UPDATES
River Trail —Jemerson stated it is done and provided pictures indicating there had not been any damage to
the cemetery or headstones during construction. Phase 2, Potter Park Zoo to Scott Woods is completed.
He is concerned about the crossing at Mt. Hope and has spoke with Andy Kilpatrick from Transportation
and at Cabinet meetings about a blinking light and pavement striping.
Hunter Pool — Is completed and there will be an inspection tomorrow.
Ranney Score Tower—There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 23 at 3:30 p.m.
North Cemetery— Jemerson stated some headstones have been down for decades and it is hard to say
which were vandalized. We can be more diligent and there is discussion about installing a gate to reduce
access to the cemetery.
Lansing Park Board Minutes September 10, 2008 Page 5
Jemerson asked Stanaway about restoring historic markers in the ground and is there something the
department can do. Jemerson stated he and the previous administration had wanted something done about
the headstones, but the funds were not available.
Stanaway reported LPD is doing a better job at patrolling. Parks could add lighting and repairing the fence
to restrict access after dark would help.
Jemerson stated righting the monuments, according to the rule book, is the family's responsibility.
Lansing Boat Club
Kibbey stated the City prevailed and there is an omission order. The LBC will appeal.
Basin Protect
Jemerson stated the bid has been signed, Horrocks will be the contractor, documents are being prepared
and once signed a pre-construction meeting will be held in probably one or two weeks.
Meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:
Kellie Brow , Interim Board Secretary`
Approved October 8, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
October 8, 2008
Letts Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Cynthia Ward, Dusty Fancher, Paul Carrier; Brian`,
Smith, Patrick Murray
MEMBERS ABSENT: Tina Houghton (excused)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Parks and Recreation Director; Loretta Stanaway, Jesse
Lasorda, Tim Bogar, Phil Mannino, Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries;
Julie Mannino, Parks and Recreation Cemetery Secretary; Bob Trezise,
LEDC; Kellie Brown, Interim Board Secretary; Brady Harrington, Eaton County
Drain Commissioner; Jeffrey Friedle, Engineer, Ledy Design Group; Joe
Schramek
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:10 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Jemerson removed item IVA and item VD from the agenda
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries presented the final documentation for the Mt. Hope Cemetery
Historic Marker. Research occurred over several years and all that is needed is the Park's Director's
signature and a check.
Stanaway reported the annual tour on September 28, 2008 had 150 attendees. Coverage was provided by
LSJ, TV10 and City Council. On October 11 there will be a work project at Mt. Hope, October 18 there will
be a survey done at North Cemetery and October 25 a group of St. Martha's school students will participate
in a work project. The 501 c3 is ready and submitted. There is work underway for the 2009-2010 budget
year and Council made their presentation regarding their preferences for Parks.
Stanaway stated she was approached by the LPD Sergeant who has jurisdiction over the area that includes
North Cemetery. She stated there is a surveillance camera at the corner of Richwood and Conrad and they
cannot get the coverage they would like from the camera as BWL only allows a height of 35' on their pole.
She suggested a pole at the cemeteries north end property line which would place the camera higher to
achieve their objective and cover the cemetery as well. She had spoken with Chad Gamble and he
indicated it seemed feasible. Stanaway indicated she had looked at the area and it is elevated with no
graves and a pole would not require any tree trimming.
BOARD MINUTES
September 10, 2008
Fancher moved to approve the minutes, seconded by Ward. Murray asked to correct the word "exceptable"
on page 4 to "acceptable".
Motion carried to accept the September, 2008 minutes as corrected. 7 yeas; 0 nays
Lansing Park Board— October 8, 2008 Page 2
NEW BUSINESS
Kibbey stated there is a 2010 CIP list coming up for the budget. The Board had wanted to get a head start
on this process.
Jemerson stated staff had met and came up with ideas which were provided. He also provided additional
staff recommendations. He was hoping today to look at and comment on the projects and take
recommendations from the Board regarding projects.
Carrier recommended going through the list quickly; Fancher suggested holding questions until the end.
Lott asked if the projects were in priority order. Jemerson responded they were not.
Kibbey stated he would like to get down to the items Lott needed to hear about before Lott had to leave the
meeting. Kibbey asked with the Board's permission to go to Old Business.
OLD BUSINESS
City Market
Bob Trezise, EDC, stated the City Market is going well and meetings are being held every week. Last
month he referenced the Memorandum of Understanding that has been worked on by the city. The
construction project is going through LEPFA. There were questions about who was going to vote and who
the final decision maker is. The way it is now in the finalization, we would like the Park Board to nominate
or appoint two members to the LEPFA sub-committee that is handling the design work and everything else
related to the City Market. This would give the Board constant participation in the process and the actual
committee is a long term planning committee of LEPFA.
Fancher offered to sit in on the meetings. She asked if the two members on the board would be
replacement for the final vote.
Trezise stated there were to many groups who were voting to finalize things and it became apparent it was
going to become cumbersome and that this was a better way.
Kibbey stated he has concerns that this is going into our park and what the Board's thoughts are on
delegating this.
Trezise stated the long range planning committee is a sub-committee of the LEPFA Board. These are
public meetings, and in that respect all Park Board members could attend, but they are looking for two
Board members.
Kibbey asked if LEPFA Board members are all residents of Lansing. Trezise stated they are not.
Fancher referred to the September 10 minutes where it stated the key to the agreement is the Park Board
must approve the City Market. She is nervous that last month the Park Board was a key to the agreement
and this month they get a couple of people.
Trezise stated he thought it was a done document when he spoke to the Park Board, it turned out it was not
and a few alterations were done.
Kibbey wanted further discussion between the various parties involved and to bring a deeper understanding
if not a modified proposal to the Park Board for review. The Park Board was fine with the City Market
before because it was not in a park, but to turn this from an eight vote responsibility to a two vote
responsibility without participation in the development of the process needs to be reviewed.
Lansing Park Board—October 8, 2008 Page 3
Fancher asked if the MOU has been signed off by the administration and all appropriate parties. Trezise
said he believed so.
Trezise stated he was sure we could sit down and further discuss this. Kibbey asked for a meeting.
Fancher asked for notification of the dates of the public meetings. Trezise stated Jemerson attends
meetings every Friday.
Murray stated it seems the committee is already meeting and he does not know how the Board feels about
appointing two people to sit on the committee now without giving up our voting rights, but we would have at
least two people actively on the committee.
Kibbey asked if this was a motion.
Murray moved to select two members to sit on the committee with the understanding the Park Board has
not given up their right to vote on the final form and final dedication of construction on park property.
Motion carried. 7 yeas 0 nays
Fancher, Carrier, and Smith volunteered for the committee
Trezise thanked the board members for coming to the press conference and helping to accept the $4.2
million dollar grant.
Trezise stated two weeks ago a lease was signed with Christman and Accident Fund, last week they closed
on the power station and this Thursday at 10:30 a.m. will be a ground breaking/ball wrecking on the
Stackable buildings.
Grand Woods Park Easement
Brady Harrington, Eaton County Drain Commissioner, stated the Grand Woods drain was not a dedicated
drain for public use or maintenance. He stated he has worked with Delta Township to get "orphaned drains"
dedicated for public use and maintenance. This process started back in 1992 and the arrangement with the
township was to accept their petition to establish a drainage district and secure the easements necessary
for any drains that are not public. Harrington stated 99 years ago there were discussions with the Lansing
Park Board regarding this particular piece of property.
Harrington stated since the township was not successful with obtaining the easement, he has taken a
different tactic by running the projects himself. In 2005 he accepted a petition to establish and take over the
actual drain.
Friedle described an aerial view of the park and what would be the drainage district.
Kibbey asked how big the park is and how big is the drainage district. Friedle stated two acres are in the
drainage district out of 140 acres.
Friedle stated there are already two established drains in the park. Harrington is asking for an easement
100 feet wide which essentially would go from the top of the bank to the top of the bank. The purpose of the
easement is to maintain an outlet for the water, which has a prescriptive right to flow through there already.
Harrington would like to have the easement and the responsibility for operating and making sure this stream
continues to flow and is the responsibility of the Eaton County Drain Commission. As it stands now as a
natural water course, it is the City's responsibility to make sure the drain continues to flow.
Lansing Park Board—October 8, 2008 Page 4
Fancher asked if the drainage district is already legally established. Harrington stated it was in 1992 by
Delta Township.
Fancher stated when she and Director Jemerson spoke with Harrington's office there was a lot of confusion
on whether if this was an extension of the drain, which she indicated was already 50', or was this for a full
100'. Harrington stated this was for a full 100'. Fancher asked if there was an easement on any portion of
this now. Harrington stated no.
Jemerson asked Friedle about his statements regarding the maintenance. Friedle stated as it stands now,
since there is no easement and the drain is not officially established and constructed, the City of Lansing is
responsible for the flowage of the drain. Providing the Drain Commissioner an easement and establishing
this drain would transfer the responsibility and liability for flooding that might occur to the drainage district
and the Eaton County Drain Commission.
Jemerson inquired if this easement is granted than any maintenance issues for clearing or covering the
drain who would pay for it and would the City be assessed with the rest of the people. Harrington stated the
drainage district would pay for this and by statue the assessments are to be commensurate with the
benefits.
Jemerson stated the City of Lansing does not benefit from this drain.
Kibbey clarified the City would have the responsibility commensurate to a subdivision lot and what is the
financial responsibility of a subdivision lot.
Harrington stated about 8/10 of a percent.
Fancher asked and verified that if the Board granted the easement, the City would become financially
responsible for building the new branch because the City is part of the district.
Harrington stated possibly. Fancher stated she could not understand how the entire district could not be
assessed for the maintenance of this one section. Friedle stated the whole district would be assessed, and
individuals with the low backyards may see more of an assessment because their benefits are higher.
Friedle stated once the drain is officially established and the documents are recorded there is a computation
of costs where all the costs associated with the original petition to create the drainage district and costs
associated with locating, establishing and construction are put into a computation of costs and there is a
day of review of where all the land owners in the district are invited, by first class mail and public notice in
the paper, to come in and review their portion and there is an appeal process for them. Once this is done,
the computational cost is the amount of money that is distributed through the appropionate process to the
people within the district.
Fancher stated she appreciated Commissioner Harrington presented this himself, but she had some very
basic questions his office could not answer and he may not have had to come in. Essentially Commissioner
Harrington in the end could take the City to court to give him this easement under the drain code.
Kibbey stated his concerns are that he does not want to see damage done to the park or have a liability leak
and would it be worth it to Eaton County to cap the liability in return for the easements. Harrington stated
there is an Attorney General's opinion that states he can not trade assessments for easements.
Friedle stated it could be petitioned under chapter 8 to extend land. Maintenance is explicitly defined in the
code as maintaining the drain to its current width, depth, grade and configuration. In addition to that there is
a monetary limit the drain commissioner is allowed to expend in maintenance which is $2,500 per mile of
established drain or fraction thereof. There are limits as to what could be done to this drain; the drain
commissioner could not enclose the drain, he can not have culverts and he can only maintain it to what it
Lansing Park Board —October 8, 2008 Page 5
currently is at the end of the petition. If there were going to be major changes, such as clean up, deepened,
widened, extended, branches added or anything than it would take a petition by citizens or a municipality
which would then go to a hearing.
Murray stated he has been to the park frequently and 100' is wider than bank to bank. Friedle stated this is
top of bank to top of bank. In some areas this is bank to bank in other areas it would allow space on the
sides for machinery.
Kibbey summed up the concerns of the Board by saying we are not interested in a liability leak, we do not
want to see the park changed and if we can find some accommodation the Board is not disinclined, but
cautious.
Jemerson stated this has gone through Planning and Development and is on hold in the Mayor's office until
the Board provides a recommendation.
Fancher stated this has gone to legal and Jemerson stated they did not have a problem with it.
Ward stated she has to assume legal knows what they are doing, but maybe the Board's concerns could be
on record.
Kibbey asked for a written resolution summing up the 8/10 of 1 percent, about maintaining the existing
condition, and about maintaining the park as a useful park and not divided.
Ward asked what effect a resolution would have.
Kibbey stated the resolution would have the concerns on the table, it would make sure we would take a look
at what Planning and Legal have said, it would capture the benefit of tonight's conversation in the resolution
and with all the understandings in the resolution we can see what has been said. At this point this is a
conversation and he does not want the Board to act on a conversation.
Ward asked Jemerson to clarify what he needed from the Board. Jemerson stated he wanted a
recommendation to the Mayor from the Board as to whether or not to proceed passing this onto Council for
their approval. The Board's recommendations, at times, have come in the form of a resolution.
Ward asked if the resolution would change anything legal has already done.
Fancher stated it would state the Park Board understands this easement would incur some costs of 8/10 of
a percent, it would release the Park and City of liability associated with drain and if we don't give it to them
they could sue us anyway.
Jemerson asked for assurance from the Drain Commission on the 8/10 of a percent. Harrington stated he
would not treat the City any differently from any other subdivision lot.
Kibbey asked if the Board wanted to wait for a resolution or vote tonight.
Ward clarified the resolution will include what the other departments reviews entailed.
Jemerson stated that is correct and he could send the document to board members that have the other
department's comments.
Kibbey clarified the resolution would cover what was said about how the assessment will happen, express
our intent about maintaining this as a park with minimum changes, comments from the engineer about what
maintenance means, we have reviewed the comments from the other departments and the Board is
interested in moving this along.
Lansing Park Board —October 8, 2008 Page 6
Carrier asked what was there first, the park or the neighborhood. Jemerson stated the park was there in
1924. Carrier stated the park was there first, which is owned by the City of Lansing and when the
neighborhoods were built where was the water going to go.
Friedle stated when the neighborhood was built by a developer and when neighborhoods were platted,
storm drains were not owned by any entity.
Fancher asked for the actual language for the release in the next meeting packet.
NEW BUSINESS
Historic Marker at Sycamore for Paul Bondeson
Joe Schramek provided an application for a tribute plaque for Paul Bondeson who started playing golf in
Lansing and later became a PGA Golf Professional.
Schramek is proposing a tribute plaque with Paul Bondeson's picture and accomplishments be placed near
the driving range at Sycamore and maybe later expanding to add other top golfers.
Schramek stated he is willing to pay for this himself and would recommend legal review the verbage.
Jemerson stated he would like to talk with Don Ballard, Golf Manager, about the bigger idea of a golf walk of
fame.
Murray asked for a recommendation from the department at the next meeting.
FY10 CIP
Jemerson provided the Board a list of ideas of what staff is recommending.
There are items that are reoccurring items, but Jemerson reviewed the following list:
There is currently an old city wide park map without street names, along with an old River Trail map that we
would like to have updated and printed to more accurately represent the Parks Department.
There are a few items that come with a pledge of dollars. At the dedication of Phase II of the River Trail,
Mr. Joe Maquire stated he would pledge $20,000 to the development of Maquire Park and staff is
recommending a match of about $80,000. In order to get a parking lot and playground equipment it should
be around that amount. Kellie Dean stated he would assist in putting together that park.
Removal of silos at Burchard Park; they are not historic, but they are a liability.
The cemetery office needs work on the exterior. The windows are painted shut, the sidewalk needs
replacing, the building is cement block and there is insulation, the interior has not been painted in years,
and the buildings out back are in need of repair.
Another Five Year Master Plan needs to be put together and a consultant is required.
Playgrounds are normal renovations.
Reasoner Park building demolition.
Paving is normal renovation
Davis Park parking lot expansion
Lansing Park Board—October 8, 2008 Page 7
Frances Park master plan
Kircher needs new lights and dugout
St Joe or Davis Park installation of basketball courts in an area that would not disturb neighbors
Foster Center combine upstairs and downstairs offices together
River Trail maintenance is normal renovation
Fratcher Foundation Match is becoming a usual item and would be the basin area
Professional consultation is for contracts for the projects
Citywide maintenance is normal expenditure
Gier Gym expansion will be the last allocation and construction could start next year after July 1
Jemerson stated the additional recommendations were from Forestry and Grounds.
Jemerson asked the Board for their input on projects within the park system that need attention.
Kibbey stated for two years there were going to be specific hearings and he wants to do so. He
recommended advertising through neighborhood groups and LSJ.
Fancher asked for more information on Dick Schaefer's suggestions.
City of Lansing/Lansing School District
Jemerson stated this is a project where we are trying to work closer with the school district and become
more efficient in maintenance where we have our park school sites. One school in particular, Lewton
School, requested we look at the school district doing the mowing and snow removal of the school property
and park. In return we would provide the district with our expertise with putting in an athletic field, soccer
goals, etc. We looked at the costs and how long the district would do the maintenance in exchange for the
facilities we would put in. Lewton is the pilot for this program. This would require the use of park millage
money for these projects.
North Cemetery Rule Amendment
Jemerson stated in the CIP list $150,000 is proposed to restore the headstones in the cemetery. This is an
estimate; a better number would be available after bids were received.
Jemerson stated in the rule book there is a clause that states the tombstones are the private property of the
purchaser. We would like to change this so that if there are tombstones that have been turned over and
there are no relatives we can contact we will, with in our financial resources made available to us, attempt to
right the tombstones. Jemerson would like to put in an amendment to change this policy.
Kibbey asked if we were taking on the liability of all the tombstones in three cemeteries. Jemerson clarified
this is just for North.
Mannino asked why it would be just North Cemetery when the rules are standard for all three cemeteries.
Jemerson stated North is in the worst shape right now.
Jemerson stated this is not about placing headstones, but put them back up right.
Lansing Park Board —October 8, 2008 Page 8
Kibbey stated he would like to see a written report on the issues and rules relating to the cemeteries and the
liability regarding righting headstones.
UPDATES
St. Joe Restroom —construction was to begin on October 6.
Park restrooms —Jemerson provided a list of restrooms that were restored and renovated and suggested
the Board make a suggestion for a 40 hour seasonal to open the restrooms. If we wanted the restrooms
open more, it may require two additional seasonal workers. Klbbey stated there needs to be a policy in
place before budget decisions are made concerning restrooms.
Mt. Hope Cemetery Basin —Jemerson reported the contract is in the Mayor's office for Horrocks to being
putting the retaining wall for entrance into the basin. Two proposals were submitted for the design and
construction supervision of Phase III which includes the columbarium, fountain and plantings. They have
been reviewed and recommendations were submitted to the Mayor.
Lansing Boat Club —They have decided they will sign a one year lease.
Meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:
Kellie Brown) Interim Board Secretary
Approved November 12, 2008
PARK BOARD MINUTES
November 12, 2008
Gier Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Ron Lott, Cynthia Ward, Paul Carrier, Brian Smith, Tina
Houghton
MEMBERS ABSENT: Patrick Murray (excused), Dusty Fancher(excused)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Parks and Recreation Director; Loretta Stanaway, Friends
of Lansing Historic Cemeteries; Kellie Brown, Interim Board Secretary; David
Buffington, Ira Fields, Tim Radee, Curtis Smith, Capitol City Renegades; Sue
Eareckson, Friends of Bancroft Park; Ron Theisen, Friends of Frances Park;
Aaron Fields; Marilyn Irvine, NW#301; Doug Finley
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA: -_
Kibbey added to updates the Farmer's Market (City Market), Paul Bondeson memorial, restroo�ns, acid
headstone policy.
Jemerson removed IVB (Art in Park presentation)from the agenda. -
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Stanaway reported the survey of North Cemetery was done and results are due next month. Phase II at Mt.
Hope has broke ground, Phase I is done, on November 16 City Council transferred $10,000 for the Fratcher
match and DLZ has designs for Phase III. They have done work programs to clean up at North and Mt.
Hope cemeteries. Stanaway also presented public blogs from the LSJ regarding the condition of North
Cemetery.
A representative from the Clifford Park Neighborhood Association stated Dick Schaefer and Rick Kibbey
have assisted them with a Master Plan, which was presented at the neighborhood meeting about what
neighbors would like to see. The neighbors would like to see a walking path at the park and would like to
suggest funding in the CIP projects.
Marilyn Irvine, neighborhood watch coordinator for Bluebell Park area, stated she is interested in having a
drinking fountain with an attachment for hoses for the gardens in the park and have a stationary picnic table
installed. Also, a light that would illuminate the playground area to avoid vandalism would be appreciated.
This park is located south of Jolly, west of Washington and Gardner school.
BOARD MINUTES
October 8, 2008
Ward moved to approve the minutes, seconded by Carrier.
Motion carried to accept the October 8, 2008 minutes as written. 5 yeas; 0 nays
NEW BUSINESS
Waverly Park Use Suggestions
PARK BOARD MINUTES — N,,.dEMBER 12 2008 PAGE 2
Capitol City Renegades— Disc Golf
Kibbey stated over the last three meetings the Board has seen plans of alternative uses for Waverly Park.
Tim Radee stated they would like to see a disc golf course go into Waverly Park. They would not need the
whole park and are flexible on moving things around.
Radee stated most disc golf parks are a $2 a day pay to play. He provided information from Hudson Mills
Metro Park in Dexter, Michigan on revenue from their disc golf course.
Carrier asked how many other disc courses there are in Michigan, the reply was near 100.
Disc golf has several health benefits associated with it. It also has community benefits, such as low cost to
construct, maintain and play, and attracts players from other cities to the area.
Kibbey asked if people look for the design or difficulty of the course to play. Radee stated yes, and this
would be probably the best course, as laid out, in the state. With the room and elevation changes of this
already being a golf course it would make it that much better for a disc course layout. Also, this can be a
year round sport.
Carrier asked if any high schools are creating any club sports for this. Radee stated the PDGA, Professional
Disc Golf Association, has a program that they supply to the schools to start programs and the CCR would
be interested in going into the schools in Lansing if they had this course.
Jemerson clarified the $44,000 in revenue from Metro Parks was from charging to play and did not include
the parking fees.
Jemerson asked if something like this was to go into Waverly do they see Waverly as a sole use for this
activity. The reply was no. Jemerson inquired what other activities would be compatible with disc golf.
CCR replied at Grand Woods there is also cross country and walking trails. Radee stated from the layout
they prepared, they stayed away from the sledding hill; there would be an area for a dog walking park.
Jemerson stated if the Board considered this, there may be some conflicts to address. Jemerson also
inquired about the use of alcohol. Fields stated there has never been an issue within parks where alcohol
is not permitted.
Houghton asked what additional cost would be involved in the upkeep. Fields stated there would be no
additional cost. Radee stated they have a sponsor who is willing to put in funds to do the baskets and t-
pads without the City paying for it. CCR raises money to replace the baskets if they are stolen. The City
would only need to mow as they already do.
Ward inquired about the potential for injury. Radee stated there is low potential for injury.
Carrier asked what percentage of the golf course they see being devoted to disc golf. Radee stated about
70%, but would take whatever they could get and could go down to as little as 25%. The original design
was to use as much land has they could with a 36-hole course.
Ward inquired about winter maintenance. Jemerson replied there would less maintenance than a regular
course, and only the parking lot would need to be plowed in the winter.
Jemerson inquired the estimated amount of people who would use a disc golf course. Fields stated
depending on the caliber of the course and based on the attendance for Metro Park from February 2008 to
November 2009 they had sold over 17,000 daily passes and he would expect Lansing to have those figures
in a couple of years.
PARK BOARD MINUTES — N,�,✓EMBER 12 2008 PAGE 3
Kibbey stated this is still an ongoing discussion. Visit www.ccrdiscgolf.org
Doug Finley stated there needs to be clarification on safety and sharing the space and it needs to be split
use, not shared use.
CCR would provide the supplies and manpower to set up the course.
Metro Park has an employee to take the money and monitor the course. They have also put into action a
fine if you are caught playing without a seasonal pass.
Physical Fitness Pedestrian Park
Doug Finley stated every time in a park if there is a pathway or playground installed we are doing something
to promote fitness. However, seldom does the Parks and Recreation movement make a commitment by
resources of land and otherwise to promote a physically fit society.
Waverly Park is an open palette and he suggested the concept to dedicate one piece of land to create a
fitter Lansing and draw together people from the interest groups in the community to provide input,
brainstorm and be a focus group on this concept. People who share the belief that fitness is their mission
like Ingham Regional, McClaren Group, Sparrow Hospital, Weight Watchers and Playmakers would be
assembled to create a park to support this theme.
Finley suggested putting together a study group who understands these dynamics and are willing to
promote it. University of Wisconsin at Parkside has such an area dedicated to a pedestrian fitness park.
Golf courses are perfect terrain for walking and running.
Both this plan and the disc golf allow for something to start soon and neither plan would be a great capital
outlay.
Jemerson stated in regard to compatible uses for this concept, the Everett Cross Country track coach was
elated he was able to use Waverly for one of his meets. Jemerson asked Finley how he sees cooperation
between this concept and using Waverly as a location for Lansing high school cross country.
Finley stated he would get coaches from Lansing Community College, Grand Ledge, from the three Lansing
high schools and the middle schools that have viable programs together first and inquire about their
commitment to the use of this property.
Finley stated a mountain bike path would be a good concept. The dog park could be contained on the
corner of Michigan and Waverly away from homes.
Kibbey stated there are a lot of aspects to this property that are appealing. It would start with a study of
who would use it and make a commitment to it.
Jemerson asked if not revenue for this concept, but what about other types of in-kind donations.
Finley recommended meeting with corporations for sponsorship for sections of the trail with an initial fee for
marking the trail then an annual fee for the operation and maintenance of their section of the trail
Kibbey stated two really strong ideas were presented this evening that will help us shape our thinking to
have a public planning process that is inclusive to attract these individuals to work together.
Public Art in the Park Policy
Kibbey stated there were a couple of items in the packet, one was a letter from Clark Hill and the other is a
recommended policy. Apparently requests are coming in to put public art in the parks.
PARK BOARD MINUTES — NOVEMBER 12 2008 PAGE 4
Smith asked if this was review for next month. Jemerson stated yes.
Jemerson stated this document is one of the first things he did when he became Director in this department
and it came from his background as Director in Flint. In Flint they had a park downtown that had a piece of
sculpture erected before he was Director and it was a huge piece of sculpture that had fallen down several
times and could have killed someone.
This policy statement is based mostly on sculptures, but requests are now coming in for murals.
Jemerson asked the Board to read over this policy and put their thoughts together for murals inside and
outside and make suggestions.
Jemerson stated the Foster Board wanted to hire an artist that works with children to paint a mural on the
inside of Foster Center.
Scholarships
Kibbey asked Smith to chair the meeting as he stepped out.
Brown stated money is set aside to offer children scholarships. This is a maximum of$40 per child per
term, which is four times a year. There is a minimal down payment required on each scholarship and the
guidelines are based on HUD low income guidelines. The scholarships are only for children and for
classes; it can not be used for leagues or one day events. There is a short form parents complete, we verify
income and award the scholarship.
Jemerson stated there is $6,000 in the one line item for scholarships.
Brown stated there has been discussion about offering scholarships to adults who are also low income.
Jemerson stated he was asking for the Board's input on this item.
Carrier stated the Lansing School District uses the same guidelines for their free and reduced the school
district has to verify income.
Brown stated most people bring in proof of income, but the department does not push it. Usually people
who are trying to use this program are aware of the requirements and most that use the program repeatedly
come in with proof.
Houghton asked if there was a reason this was set up for children to begin with. Jemerson stated we want
to make sure, as with most programs, to have kids participate in these public programs and put together
some sort of mechanism to assist kids, but he was not here when the scholarship program was originally
developed.
Jemerson stated this did not come directly to him as a request from an adult, but came out in the community
center.
Brown stated what prompted this mostly for adults was adults who participate in the Therapeutic Recreation
programs that live in assisted living and on SSI and have very minimal income. We offer programs for them
that assist with their disabilities like aqua exercise. This is not restricted to them, but they are living on very
limited incomes.
Ward asked if there was a possibility if the amount of financial resources would be expanded or are we
looking at just adding adults. Would the amount still remain $6,000?
PARK BOARD MINUTES— NOVEMBER 12 2008 PAGE 5
Jemerson stated different line items could be created, but he did not see any additional monies coming in
for this.
Carrier recommended writing for grants and volunteered to provide names of grant writers.
Houghton stated she is concerned about using money that is now being mostly used for kids.
Kibbey asked if the Board needed to adopt this or if it was informational. Jemerson stated it is
informational, but he would like to hear any thoughts the Board has and he would like to take Paul up on his
offer to seek additional funding for our programs for people who really need it.
Ward asked if the thought was to restrict it to Therapeutic Recreation, but what if someone wants to take
belly dancing.
Carrier stated it comes down to essential needs as compared to wants. What we are talking about here is
people may need these classes to increase quality of life.
Jemerson asked if the Board wanted to recommend to him to put together a scholarship program or seek
funding for a scholarship program for all adults or for just some adults like Therapeutic Recreation.
Ward stated for all adults.
OLD BUSINESS
Grand Woods
Jemerson stated a 285 was done and with the Park Board's comments from the last meeting this has been
put on hold, the City is reviewing the easement document and it is currently in the City Attorney's office.
City Market
Kibbey stated Bob Trezise made a presentation about a planning process for the new city market and there
was some dissatisfaction on part of the Board on how it ended. There was additional discussion and the
circumstances now are that 3 Park Board volunteers were asked to serve on the long range planning
committee and then found out there are four individuals from LEPFA. The Park Board showed no interest in
being the minority partner in the deal and negotiated for four seats. Kibbey stated he has appointed
himself, however if someone is interested he would step aside.
Kibbey stated Paul and Brian made it to the first meeting and he had made it to the second meeting.
Carrier stated at the first meeting they went over somewhat of a game plan. They seemed to be more
organized because they knew each other and went over what has happened leading up to this meeting.
Smith stated they went over the budget and timeline; they want to break ground April 2009 with completion
December 2009. They are meeting with the vendors.
Kibbey stated at the meeting he attended some issues caught his attention. One is this is right on the
rivertrail and they stated they could start putting vending pods on the trail with a bypass or an upgrade.
Second they wanted to impinge on the Sunbowl, but the architect stated it is in the flood plain. Third they
wanted to have truck traffic between the buildings under the Shiawassee Bridge.
Kibbey stated Eric Hart mentioned they wanted to maintain performance areas.
PARK BOARD MINUTES — N,,JEMBER 12 2008
PAGE 6
Ward stated when she first heard some of the feedback from the meeting she wondered what role the Park
Board serves in the long range planning. She suggested to the Board members to keep in mind to have
some role in the planning. Also, since only four Board members are permitted to participate it would be
useful for the remaining Board members to know when the meetings are so they can attend the public
meetings.
Ward commented in looking at the executive summary she saw 11 events that involve walking/running that
may need other venues and could maybe use Waverly.
Jemerson stated he spoke with Eric Hart about accommodating events that utilize the River Trail and there
are concerns with the bypass and if we need to expand, temporarily, into the river to accommodate these
events and keep the events going than that is what will need to be done.
Proposed CIP FY2010
Kibbey asked what amount we are looking at.
Jemerson stated to look at last year's amount of$1.5 million. The list provided had been updated, but the
next version will be an Excel spreadsheet so the Board can start the process. Jemerson asked when the
Board wanted to start prioritizing.
Smith stated the last couple of years the Board started in November and he feels behind already.
Jemerson stated the City has not started serious budget deliberations, but should start in January.
Kibbey asked if in December to meet from 6-7 p.m. for the public hearing and get the information out to
neighborhood organizations, user groups, and boards. He would also like to see only the budget on the
agenda.
UPDATES
Westside— Bleachers have been removed and new bleachers will be installed before spring play.
St. Joe Park Restrooms— renovation underway
Foster ParkRestrooms— renovation underway
Davis Park Trail — under construction
Wainwright— picnic shelter bids are in and is before the Mayor
Meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:` ��
Kellie Br wn, Interim Board Secretary
Approved December 10, 2008
PARK BOARD
CIP PUBLIC HEARING MINUTES
December 10, 2008 F-'r-r�i�
Foster Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Dusty Fancher, Cynthia Ward, Paul Barrier; Brian Srritih,'Tina
Houghton
MEMBERS ABSENT: Patrick Murray(excused, arrived at 7:15 p.m.), Ron Lott(excused)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Parks and Recreation Director; Gary Andrews, Model
Hobby; Kenetha and Michael Gibson, Capitol Area BMX; Ron Eggleston, Friends
of Fenner; Harold Leeman; Jane and Gred Parker, Greencroft Neighborhood
Organization; Loretta Stanaway and Tim Bogar, Friends of Lansing Historic
Cemeteries; Brian Anderson, EDC; Anita Beavers, Colonial Village Neighborhood
Association; Joan Nelson, Allen Neighborhood Association; Dee King and Robin
Sackevich, Friends of Greater Lansing Dog Park; Ann Laurie and Douglas
Adelman, MDOT; Kellie Brown, Interim Board Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Kibbey stated this meeting is to provide citizens an opportunity to have input into the budget process. The Park
Board will make recommendations to the Mayor as to what projects should be funded in the next year. The
process begins when the Board talks with staff and public, the Director puts in recommendation to the Mayor and
meets on the budget and the Mayor submits his budget(which will include the Parks CIP projects)to Council.
Kibbey stated there are three additional opportunities for further input later in the process: one is when each
department director makes a presentation, Council will hold two city wide hearings where the public can speak
and when Council makes their final recommendation there is yet another meeting.
Kibbey stated there are two ranking systems; first there is the Park and Recreation Master Plan priority
guidelines (copies of the guidelines were provided to the audience). Second is the prioritization by the Park
Board.
Kibbey stated there are two things that will help to get projects; one is to be at the meeting to provide an
understanding that there are people involved who are trying to make something happen at a park and second is
to bring something to the table ie: labor, donations, energy, etc. It also helps to create a "master plan"for your
park of what needs to be done. This may be accomplished by surnp! as easily as walking around the park with
a planner from the Department and noting what needs to be done.
Testimony from audience speakers bgan:
Gary Andrews, 560 Brooklyn, Lansing stated a number of years ago model plane enthusiasts prepared a
detailed plan for a hobby park at the former Aurelius dump site. The plan was submitted to the Park Board and
City Council several years ago and Council supported the concept. City Council asked administration to direct
Public Service to create a feasibility study, which was done, submitted to Council and placed on file with Parks.
A Model park at this location could accommodate a national event due to the proximity to hotels, camping, and
restaurants. Andrews would like to see this idea considered. This site could be used for model planes, R/C cars,
etc.
Jemerson inquired how much this project was projected to cost. Andrews stated in 2003 it was estimated at
$1,000,000 dollars, but there could be funds available under Brownfield Redevelopment and several state funds.
Anita Beavers, 3010 Boston Blvd., Colonial Village wondered if the park at Elmhurst and the tennis courts could
be looked at. They are also looking at putting in a small memorial plaque at Elmhurst for a neighbor
who helped with the flowers and are also concerned about the lack of budget for Forestry personnel to tend to
damaged trees. She also asked if the River Trail and Park map is one map with the same information.
LANSING PARK BOARD CIP PuBLIC HEARING MINUTES DECEMBER 10, 2008 PAGE 2
Jemerson stated the forestry issues need to be addressed at budget time. The memorial plaque would require a
form completed. The River Trail map and Park map are currently two separate maps.
Loretta Stanaway, 546 Armstrong Rd., stated she wanted to lend her support to keep Waverly as a golf course,
but is not opposed to a multi purpose facility. As for the basin project at Mt. Hope Cemetery they initially were
told there would be CIP funds requested to match the Fratcher Funds, but now they have been told the request is
not going to be done. She would hate to see this become a precedent causing it to drag out this project and see
it happen a second year. Also, the proposed list received at the last Board meeting the CIP list had $75,000 for
North Cemetery and $75,000 for the cemetery office, but the new list does not have the cemetery office work
listed.
Jemerson stated the cemetery office has received a lot of work by the Public Service Department. A lot of the
items addressed on the first list have been done.
Stanaway stated she has concerns about the City Market and the economic conditions the country faces, that the
developer will not have the available credit to have the resources to carry out his end of the deal.
Ron Eggleston, 3314 Parkview Ave., President of Fenner Board asked what the target amount of this year's
projects would be.
Jemerson stated approximately$1.2 million dollars.
Eggleston also inquired about the bridge at Fenner as it is definitely a priority 1 and a safety issue. Jemerson
stated it is funded and being worked on.
Brian Anderson, EDC, talked about potential funding sources for improvement to the park surrounding City
Market, which is to being construction April 1. One of the things talked about was adding downtown amenities
and exploring ideas such as a skating rink for winter and use as an amphitheater in the summer. Anderson
stated he also works closely with Old Town and they are looking at Burchard Park and playground equipment,
but there will be funds needed for other projects.
Eggleston stated Fenner needs some paving projects that are safety issues. There are also repairs needed to
the parking lot, building entrance and on some of the trails and he would like to see funding for this.
Kibbey asked Eggleston to submit a map of the areas that need repair.
John Pollard, 1718 Blair St, stated he served 14 years on the Park Board and was never able to convince
colleagues to fund Forestry. Trees are being trimmed every 14-20 instead of 4-7 and as we saw when the
tornado came through, this is a matter of public safety. The golf courses had always made money until they
were changed to an enterprise fund. He feels Parks and Recreation is a quality of life issue, not a revenue
making process.
Pollard referred to the 5-year plan and recited previous budget amounts and what was used for CIP and
administrative costs and the 5-year plan has not lived up. Park millage was originally to be used for CIP and not
salaries. The Park Board is the only defense the citizens have with administration.
Kenetha Gibson, 1009 N. Walnut, President of BMX, requested lights at the track. They run national races at
night and it is dark unless they rent the lights. Also asked for additional bleachers, picnic tables and if they
received donations could they put up lights.
Joan Nelson, Allen Neighborhood, reminded the Park Board the 5-year plan for Hunter Park included a gazebo,
picnic tables and grills.
Respectfully submitted:
Kellie drown, Interim Board Secretary
Approved January 14, 2009
PARK BOARD MINUTES
December 10, 2008
Foster Community Center
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Dusty Fancher, Cynthia Ward, Paul Carrier„Brian Smith, Tina
Houghton
MEMBERS ABSENT: Patrick Murray (excused, arrived at 7:15 p.m.), Ron Lott (excused)
OTHERS PRESENT: Murdock Jemerson, Parks and Recreation Director; Gary Andrews, Model
Hobby; Kenetha and Michael Gibson, Capitol Area BMX; Ron Eggleston,
Friends of Fenner; Harold Leeman; Jane and Gred Parker, Greencroft
Neighborhood Organization; Loretta Stanaway and Tim Bogar, Friends of
Lansing Historic Cemeteries; Anita Beavers, Colonial Village Neighborhood
Association; Joan Nelson, Allen Neighborhood Association; Dee King and
Robin Sackevich, Friends of Greater Lansing Dog Park; Ann Lawrie and
Douglas Adelman, MDOT; Kellie Brown, Interim Board Secretary
CALLED TO ORDER: 7:15 p.m.
ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA:
Kibbey added Clifford Park under updates and presentation of NRTF grant land acquisition of Hunter's
Ridge.
STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS:
Gary Andrews asked the Board to request Director Jemerson to pull up the report from a few years ago on
the idea and information for a model park.
Pollard stated Parks needs to stop acquiring land when the city can't take care of what we have. Also,
stated the proposed City Market has not resolved the city ordinance and he is disturbed by the upset of the
river trail during development.
Smith advised everyone there is a public meeting next Thursday, December 18, regarding the new City
Market.
Stanaway stated Parks has taken the largest loss of funding, personnel and there needs to be a more
aggressiveness from the Parks Department and Park Board to stand up for the department. She was
surprised to here EDC recommend a skating rink downtown, and felt this would only benefit the developer
and the developer's tenants.
BOARD MINUTES
November 12, 2008
Murray moved to approve the minutes, seconded by Houghton.
Motion carried to accept the November 12, 2008 minutes as written. 7 yeas; 0 nays
NEW BUSINESS
LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES DECEMBER 10, 2008 PAGE 2
MDOT Easement Request at Waverly Park
Ann Lawrie and Doug Alderman from MDOT stated MDOT is proposing upgrades to the intersection of
Waverly Road and Saginaw Hwy with signals, and ADA accessible sidewalk ramps. The new federal
guideline states anytime MDOT upgrades signals or intersections, upgrades need to be done for
accessibility. In order to upgrade the south east corner of Waverly and Saginaw, MDOT is proposing to
obtain an easement at Waverly Golf Course.
Lawrie and Adelman described three concept drawings of the proposed area needed. MDOT would not
install sidewalks on Saginaw, but would install sidewalk ramps and signals at the intersection on the south
east quadrant. At this time the existing right of way goes right to the curb, and to get a sidewalk to cross
pedestrians they would need to go outside of the right of way. This easement would be for approximately
50 feet on each leg and would allow MDOT to install signals and sidewalk ramps within the easement.
Fancher inquired since MDOT is not proposing sidewalks on Saginaw are these ramps going to nowhere or
are they connecting to existing sidewalks.
Adelman stated there are no sidewalks on this quadrant. Fancher asked if this is to provide a safe passage.
The answer was yes. There is also a bus stop in front of the golf course
Fancher clarified that if this is updated it has to be ADA accessible.
Smith moved to approve an easement for the purpose of making the corner handicap accessible.
Seconded by Fancher.
Motion carried. 6 yeas 0 nays
Dog Park Presentation
The Friends of Greater Lansing Dog Parks walked Waverly Park with Dick Schaefer, Director Jemerson and
Don Ballard about an additional dog park at Waverly Park and provided a handout regarding the concept.
This park does not have water, provided a large open space, shade, restrooms and adequate parking. The
buildings that are currently there could be used for dog obedience classes.
They are proposing maybe some time next year to use a gate key system so people would pay a small fee
for the use of the park. This would keep some people out of the park and second it would help monitor the
people that use the park and when they use. It will also help with monitoring any problems with individuals
and their pets.
Carrier asked about the proposal for Waverly and how much it would cost.
The FGLDP stated they do not know, but two sides of the existing fence could be used and would only need
2 sets of the same length of fence.
Carrier inquired about the fee for the gate key and if it could cover the cost of this project and maintenance.
The FGLDP believes the gate key fee could be used more for maintenance.
Jemerson stated the FGLDP did a lot toward the financing for the fence at Scott Woods and some of those
funds may be available for this.
Fancher asked if other cities have key cards and is concerned how the information is used and that the
information would not get out into the wrong hands.
LANSING PARK BOARD MINu TES DECEMBER 10, 2008 PAGE 3
FGLDP stated the key gate information would be controlled more by a government agency and the FGLDP
board would have limited access.
Kibbey stated there have been other presentations on Waverly Park and the Board is not ready to make a
decision, but as the re-purposing of Waverly continues the Board wants to be a part of it.
Design Concept Presentation CMI Riverfront by Wilcox Professional Services
Chad Gamble, Director of Public Service stated there has been a lot of hard work over the last three years
to bring in the Accident Fund project and there has been a lot of windfall from the project; one of them being
a $3.2 million dollar CMI (Clean Michigan Initiative) Grant from the State of Michigan which is used for
waterfront development. An RFP was issued for design services for this project that will be constructed in
conjunction with the Accident Fund site. The RFP was awarded to Wilcox and Hamilton Anderson, two very
capable consultants. Wilcox is a local, City of Lansing, contractor.
Gamble stated this is a brainstorming session, where the contractors are going to provide a power point
presentation on concepts, ideas and are seeking the Board's ideas and comments.
Samir Matta of Wilcox Professional Services went through the presentation and described the different
ideas. The Board was provided a handout of the power point presentation and asked to write their ideas,
comments, suggestions and return this information to Director Jemerson by Tuesday, December 16.
Fancher asked if Wentworth Park would be impacted. It would not, but the trail would meet up at
Wentworth. She also stated she, Smith and Carrier have been attending other meeting and there needs to
be bike racks, trash cans, benches, water, etc.
Gamble told the Board not to be constrained with budget, but to provide their ideas no matter what. The
contractors want to understand what the Board's objective is and it is the contractor's job to come up with
different ideas.
CIP FY2010
Kibbey stated included in the Board packet is the list of proposed fiscal year 2010 Capital Improvement
Projects and they are listed at$2,275,000 and will need to be about$1.2 million. Also included are the
priority guidelines to correspond with the priority number on the proposed list.
Kibbey asked if the Board needed a special budget meeting in the next 14 days. Jemerson state the
January meeting would be fine.
MNRTF Grant Presentation
Jemerson provided an overview of the Hunter's Ridge acquisition grant awarded from the DNR grant funds
to the Parks Department for 28.47 acres with 500 feet of river frontage.
Respectfully submitted:
Kellie Bro n, Interim Board Secretary
Approved January 14, 2009