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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 Park Board Minutes PARK BOARD NOTES _ Gier Community Center January 9, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Dusty Fancher, Adam Hussain, Patricia Spitzley, Olivia Martin, Paul Holland, Rick Kibbey (7:15 pm) MEMBERS ABSENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Dwight Washington; Andy Kilpatrick, City of Lansing Public Service Dept; Catherine Babcock, Lansing Art Gallery; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m. by Dusty Fancher, Vice-Chair ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA Brett Kaschinske added under information National Park Recreation Association grant receipt information. STATEMENT OF CITIZENS Dwight Washington stated he enjoys attending the Park Board meetings, but would like to see better advertisement of the meeting schedule. Dusty Fancher stated the Board meets the second Wednesday each month and rotates quarterly between the four centers. Also, the board meeting schedule is on the Parks web site, is sent to City Council and City Clerk with the full annual schedule, and is publicized on City TV. Dusty Fancher stated it would also be added to the departments Facebook page. Washington also inquired if the board has a strategic plan. Rick Kibbey commented the board does not have its own plan, but the board and department have the 5-year Master Plan. BOARD MEETING MINUTES Dusty Fancher moved to accept the October 17, 2012 and November 14, 2012 minutes as submitted; seconded by Adam Hussain. 6 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Consumers Pathway and Frances Trail Expansion Andy Kilpatrick stated the Frances Park Moores River Drive seawall section is deteriorating and needs to be removed. They are also looking at a canoe/kayak launch on park property at Frances Park. Kilpatrick provided a presentation and diagrams of the proposed plan. The project is estimated at$2,000,000; the money used will be a combination of Service Transportation Program road money, Act 51 which is gas tax money, enhancement grant money and trust fund money, which will be used for matching funds. No park millage money will be used for the project. Patricia Spitzley inquired what the time line will be. Kilpatrick stated it is a complicated project because it goes into Lansing Township and needs to be done together so some of the project is contingent upon support from Lansing Township to avoid City having to pay back funds. Kilpatrick stated there has been communication with the technical staff at Lansing Township and a public meeting will be held in February. The first part will not proceed unless we know the second part will go to avoid paying back funds. Kilpatrick stated the first phase of the Consumers pathway would go from the curve on Cavanaugh, behind Munn; connect to Delhi pathway and to Pennsylvania. We are not sure how it would link through Maguire Park; it could come across the bridge from Munn or go to Jolly Road. Construction on the Delhi path should be done in October 2013 and our project will either be constructed this fall or spring of 2014. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 9, 2013 PAGE 2 Rick Kibbey stated his understanding is Delhi was contributing to our RiverTrail and are we required to reciprocate. Kilpatrick stated his understanding is Delhi DDA will be contributing. Kilpatrick stated the west section of the Consumers right-of-way goes all the way up the south side of the city, Martin Luther King Blvd. to Davis Park. The east and west Consumers pathway is scheduled for fall 2013 and spring 2014; the center section is scheduled for 2014 and up US127 to Spartan Village is still being discussed. Andy Kilpatrick stated this is a road project and right now there is an assumption road funding would be used to maintain this. Brett Kaschinske inquired if the path on the Consumers right-of-way is going to be fairly straight. Kilpatrick stated mostly yes, with slight curves. Wentworth Park—Annual Art Exhibit Catherine Babcock, Lansing Art Gallery, stated they received the Sense of Place in the Arts grant. She provided a slide show and background information on the Lansing Art Gallery. The 2013 Sense of Place in the Arts grant project is a sculpture exhibit to be held June 1 through August 30, 2013. They would like to locate it in Wentworth Park. This project would utilize Michigan artist to try and get people to visit downtown, learn the history of Lansing, and enjoy the river. They will commission art works that are site specific; which means the artist will visit the park, view the qualities of the park and submit a proposal of what they would create to put in the park. There would then be a jury process with a panel of jurors to select the artwork. There will be a landscape architect who will work with the artists to assist with attaching their sculptures to concrete bases in a safe manner. In the event the concrete kills the grass, the landscape architect will replant and repair the park back to its beginning state. Babcock stated they want to include the environment into this project. The park is very peaceful and it will be a great exhibition site. Brett Kaschinske inquired how many sculptures will be placed in the park. Babcock stated between 7 and 10 and they will not be placed near another structure. If the structure is not appropriate for the park, it will not be selected. Patricia Spitzley inquired when the artists are selected will this be presented to the board again or to Brett. Babcock stated in the past she walked the sites with city staff to ensure it is ADA compliant and she would be happy once the sculptures are selected to show them to Brett and review the plot map. Babcock stated this year she has written into the grant to have 5 security cameras installed, which would cover the whole park. She has met with Lansing Police and they agreed this is a very visible site, patrol drives by the park and there is a fence so no one can come up from the river. This project is all grant funded and will have no cost to the parks department. Paul Holland inquired about city ordinances regarding the security cameras. Brett Kaschinske stated ACLU issues have been covered with police. Paul Holland moved to recommend support of this activity; seconded by Adam Hussain. 6 yeas; 0 nays Cherry Hill Brett Kaschinske stated he received a call from a resident regarding the negative activity in the park. The resident inquired about the possibility of a dog park. Olivia Martin inquired if the current park is active. Patricia Spitzley stated with the maintenance our other parks need, she does not believe this is the time to look at adding another expense and maintenance project; she is not in favor of this. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 9, 2013 PAGE 3 Brett Kaschinske stated there are options to do in the park to deter negative activities and he may re-apply for another a grant. Andy Kilpatrick stated the State Police have a need for parking and could parking create revenue. Kaschinske stated he was in the park today, the parking area was full and the issue will be addressed. Rick Kibbey stated he would like to add to the agenda that at the last big meeting the board took a position on some principals regarding the development of Red Cedar Park. The issue is moving on, it has gone to the Planning Board and the recommendations from the Planning Board very closely follow the Park Board recommendations. The Park Board had asked for the majority of the park is retained for recreational use. The Planning Board did not vote on this due to a lack of quorum. Planning Board is inclined to support along with Mid-MEAC and Eastside Neighborhood Organization. Brett Kaschinske stated Kircher Park is not included in the sale and has been surveyed and set aside from the rest of the parcel. Park Board Annual Report Rick Kibbey inquired when this is due. Brett Kaschinske stated before the next Park Board meeting. Rick Kibbey stated he would be willing to work on this; Olivia Martin offered to assist. Copies of all 2012 minutes will be sent to Rick and Olivia to compile information from. Parks Annual Report Brett Kaschinske stated the data is in and the report is almost complete. A copy will be e-mailed out to board members. OLD BUSINESS Park Inventory Rick Kibbey stated this became a three step process; step one was to identify elements for assessing performance of our parks. The second part was what we want out of our park system; the third was specific suggestions. Rick Kibbey stated he went back and reviewed what has been done to put standards in place; previous master plans from the City and Parks Department, and a report from Lee Bancroft providing the history of the department. We ask from our parks to provide relief from congestion, contact with nature, flood control, social sports, memorial and ceremonial events, protecting real estate values and access to water. Some of the parcels are land locked, hard to get to or not in the city. One recurring request is to connect the parks by a trail and see strong use of facilities by neighbors. If the board is going to get a request to consolidate parks, the board should have principals in place. Rick Kibbey inquired if he is close to the board's wishes and ready to proceed. All board members stated yes. Kibbey stated by Bancroft's formula and National Recreation Park Association standards of people per acreage, we are within 3/100 of a point of where we should be and this was calculated after looking at the unlikely parcels. Rick Kibbey reviewed the park parcels found to be unlikely to be fit for park use in the foreseeable future: Willoughby—adjacent development is very sparse, leaving the park without users. Larch Park— this parcel is very isolated, essentially landlocked, and located poorly for a public park. Parcel B—near Willoughby, adjacent development is very sparse PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 9, 2013 PAGE 4 Munn— while the stream portion of Munn is attractive, desirable and suitable for park use and should be retained, the back portion is remote, cannot be seen by adjacent users and very rough with perhaps an underlay of broken concrete. The area does deserve a park, especially one accessible to the large population at nearby apartment complexes. The following properties are sliding into obsolescence because of the changing role of elementary schools in the community. While the surrounding communities deserve a park, a pared down parcel, strategically located, would be more appropriate to local use. As the school district sells off parcels, the city loses both the park and the equipment there. This partnership has fallen victim to changing times. Kendon—retain a 5 acre parcel near the center of the residential area and offer to the school the balance of the parcel for sale or in exchange for more appropriate property the district may own elsewhere. Lewton— the same Averill— the same Cavanaugh—the same Atwood— the same Woodcreek—the same The property at Miller Road has been made obsolete by the opening of the new facility at Hill. The department has no programming demands for a building in that site, which is attractively located on a commercial corridor. Sale is suggested. Washington Mall—this park has long since disappeared under the redevelopment of downtown. We suggest it be removed from the list of park properties. There are a few properties retained as parks with minimal programming, which serve mostly as drainage corridors. It is suggested to reach out to the drain commissioner and see if his office can manage the properties more appropriately for drainage use. Kimberly, Fairview and a portion of Red Cedar Some parcels of land are frankly leftover from real estate development or road projects and do not serve a recreational programming purpose, but are also too small to serve as nature areas: Hillsdale, Hillsboro, Osborn and either Tammany or Glen Eden. CACS has longterm leases on a couple of park properties. We suggest negotiating inclusion of property maintenance into the terms of their lease so they can more properly incorporate the land into their programming: Willow Point and Donora Park While the Park Board would never recommend disposal of either Potter Park or the Fenner properties, organization at both sites have developed independent capacity for program operations that suggests revised roles for both properties during the term of their remaining lease. Their program and overall functioning remains a priority for the board and department and we will continue to seek expanded grant funding and return of property(lime pits) to complete the complex. Similarly, the Old Town revival organizations have kicked off a cycle of renewal that is well evolved and whose activities frequently incorporate use of park property. We would urge a stronger role for those groups in the management of both the Turner mini-park and the portion of Burchard Park on the east bank of the river. Finally the complex of park and lots at Foster Park has evolved into a complex of gardening related activities with deep impact in that community as well as other. We would suggest exploring with appropriate gardening groups, including ANC, the possibilities of a deeper involvement at that site. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 9, 2013 PAGE 5 This is a consolidation and reshuffling of properties and functions. There are some losses of property imagined but we are also including a list of recommended sites for expansion. We understand proceeds from park sales can only be used to acquire new properties. It is a poor market to sell in and we understand acquisition may not move as quickly as desired, but wanted to assure that these two activities are seen as linked and do not represent a shrinkage of park property. According to both professional standards and those proposed in our own planning documents, we are right at the level of park service to which we aspired, in no small part due to the unflagging support of citizens and city institutions but also the continued understanding and commitment of our city leaders and those who daily toil on behalf of parks programs. Patricia Spitzley stated when she worked for the DNR it was determined you could go no more than 30 or so miles before being at another state park or recreation activity. When we are talking about this there are some areas where we live that don't have access to a park and is that something we should look at when acquiring new land to take an inventory and prioritize areas that do not have public recreation options. Brett Kaschinske stated this will be a working document and the subject will remain on the agenda for discussion and changes. Rick Kibbey asked for permission from the Board to discuss this subject and be proactive. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved March 13, 2013 PARK BOARD NOTES Gier Community Center March 13, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Dusty Fancher, Adam Hussain, Patricia Spitzley, Paul Holland, MEMBERS ABSENT: Olivia Martin OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Loretta Stanaway, Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries; Amy Moore, Ingham County Health Department; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:15 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA Rick Kibbey asked to add into Old Business A, Park Inventory, the guidelines he presented. `l STATEMENT OF CITIZENS r Y1 Loretta Stanaway stated it is almost guaranteed from what she can judge is that regionalization of the RiverTrail will happen and she would caution sinking a lot of limited dollars into RiverTrail related expenditures until the County can take it over. BOARD MEETING MINUTES Dusty Fancher moved to accept the January 9, 2013 minutes as submitted; seconded by Patricia Spitzley. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Tobacco Free Parks Amy Moore, Ingham County Health Department, provided packets, a data slide show on Tobacco Free Parks and a model tobacco free policy. Moore stated she has approached community center advisory boards and has received positive feedback. Dusty Fancher inquired if there are other parks in the area that are tobacco free. Amy Moore stated she attended a meeting this evening at Delhi Township Park Board and they are interested. The boards in Ingham County are discussing what Eaton has done by starting with beaches and playgrounds and expand it out over a two year period. Dusty Fancher inquired how Ingham County Health Department helps to promote this. Moore provided a packet on how to include it in events, notifications, and branding modeled after Minnesota parks. Dusty Fancher stated if you confront someone in a park telling them it is a tobacco free zone and they become threatening or physical, is there liability that will come back on the park system. Moore stated the person enforcing this is a representative of the City. Patricia Spitzley stated if a sign is put up there has to be a mechanism to enforce the policy and if we do not it is only a sign. She has issues with this being free public space and telling someone what to do. We have choices and she has a problem philosophically with this and enforcing it. PARK BOARD MEETING — MARCH 13, 2013 PAGE 2 Patricia Spitzley inquired who has adopted this policy. Moore stated Lansing Township is 100% tobacco free, Eaton County and Ingham County have both done areas, such as playgrounds, and have passed a policy which will go in affect in about 9 months and all parks will be tobacco free. Delhi did not vote today, but are thinking about the phase in process for certain areas. Adam Hussain stated in a roundabout way, this is empowering citizens to enforce the policy and sees an issue with this. Brett Kaschinske stated the ultimate enforcement is the police. Staff may talk to a coach or parent at a youth event. There are complaints at Concerts in the Park and he has addressed individuals about the smoke. Patricia Spitzley stated she understands the big picture, but has a problem with telling someone they cannot enjoy a park while engaging in something that is a legal activity. Rick Kibbey stated there may be two areas of interest—enclosed spaces and inside buildings. Brett Kaschinske stated there are gray areas because dugouts and pavilions are not enclosed and it may be structures rather than buildings. Paul Holland stated dugouts, pavilions, playgrounds could be no smoking where there are children and people are compacted. In most cases people will put it out or walk away, but if they don't and we have this posted we have the right to enforce this and LPD should come. If they don't then this is bad city government to have a rule and not enforce it. Brett Kaschinske stated LPD will come, but it would be in their time. Dusty Fancher stated what if someone does not put it out, what is the penalty. Patricia Spitzley inquired does this need to become an ordinance and how is it going to be enforced. Amy Moore stated it is the same as if dog waste is not picked up you have the right to ask them to leave the property. Brett Kaschinske inquired if Ingham County has created a park ordinance that individuals may be ticketed to enforce this. Amy Moore stated Eaton County had the County Board of Commissioners pass the tobacco free policy and Ingham County has it as a park policy. They both handle it the same way as litter, loud noise, and dog waste which is not obeying the rules that have been set forth. Patricia Spitzley likes what has been said about the dugouts and pavilions, but in order to be enforceable this would need to be an ordinance. It needs to be spelled out what will happen to someone who is violating a park policy, but who is doing something legal. Rick Kibbey stated it appears the Board is not ready to take a position on this. The door is open for a couple of aspects of this such as dugouts, kids' playgrounds and pavilions. Memorial Request— Mt. Hope Cemetery Basin Rick Kibbey stated this is an application to name the Mt. Hope Cemetery Basin in honor of Charles Fratcher who created a trust to assist with maintenance and the wellbeing of Mt. Hope Cemetery. Loretta Stanaway stated this is the most appropriate name she could think of for this project. It is very much keeping within what Charlie was about which was remembering and honoring loved ones. This provides the opportunity to anyone who has loved ones buried in Mt. Hope Cemetery. There are many who would like to have loved ones in Mt. Hope, however because it is closed for burial space the only option is a columbarium. We are considering a columbarium tower which will give individuals a place to put two or three sets of interned ashes in an upright tower. She feels this is an appropriate choice. PARK BOARD MEETING—MARCH 13, 2013 PAGE 3 Patricia Spitzley inquired if there were any Fratcher's left. Stanaway stated there is not, he was an only child. Brett Kaschinske asked Stanaway, in her estimation, if she thought this would be approved or not since this is the Fratcher Foundation we are applying to and there are guidelines and the ruling party is PNC Bank. Stanaway does not believe there will be any hesitation on the part of PNC, because the terms of the trust was the money could only be used in Mt. Hope, not used for routine maintenance and beautifies the cemetery in ways the City cannot afford to do. The whole basin project fits into the category. Brett Kaschinske stated we need to apply for the grant every year and each year it is approximately $13,000. Patricia Spitzley inquired what the cost would be. Loretta Stanaway stated the proposal is to mimic the entrance arch to Mt. Hope on a much smaller scale and if that is not feasible it would be a sign similar to a historic marker. Patricia Spitzley inquired if PNC could be contacted first to determine if this may be accepted before we do this. Also, is there another project waiting that may be put on hold to do this project. Brett Kaschinske stated we do not have another immediate project planned for next year, but the basin is an ongoing project. Rick Kibbey stated this may be a phase project, starting with an appropriate sign and the second part a decorative arch. Paul Holland inquired if there are two separate issues; one voting on naming it after Charles Fratcher and second to provide funding for the sign as phase one. Patricia Spitzley moved to approve the request for the memorial application to have a Fratcher Memorial sign or project. Paul Holland seconded. Rick Kibbey clarified this is to dedicate the columbarium area to Charles Fratcher with destination technology to be determined later. Dusty Fancher inquired if the memorial request will return to the Board. Patricia Spitzley stated her motion was to only approve the application as the first phase; the second and third phases which are approving the design and the budget would come back later to the Board. 5 yeas; 0 nays. Motion carried. ACT 33 Delhi Pathway Brett Kaschinske referred to the January minutes and this parcel was included in the Consumers pathway and Frances trail. Delhi Township is going to be coming north to Maguire Park. There is a section the City owns that is at Hope Soccer Complex, which is owned by the City but managed by Ingham County. There is a small portion by Jolly and 196 where the trail will go under the bridge and the area is between the creek and railroad. Rick Kibbey clarified the Board is willing to act on this tonight to meet the April 1, 2013 grant application deadline, but Board members would like to see a map. Dusty moved to approve the easement; Patricia Spitzley seconded. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried. S &S Die Property Rick Kibbey inquired if there were any questions or thoughts from the public hearing meeting on this item. Paul Holland moved for the City to acquire the land and apply for the grant with a 25% match. Dusty Fancher seconded. 5 yeas; 0 nays. PARK BOARD MEETING— MARCH 13 2013 PAGE 4 Motion carried. Paul Holland clarified the price is $30,000 with a 25% match of about$7,500. Brett Kaschinske clarified closing costs and the environment study would also be added to the cost, which the city would only need 25% matching funds of the total cost. CIP Protects Rick Kibbey inquired how much is available. Brett Kaschinske stated approximately $300,000 to $400,000. Brett Kaschinske provided a list of CIP projects and asked the Board for their priorities one through four. Dusty Fancher informed the new members to not be scared off by a large number, because money may be set aside over a few years to fund a large project. She also asked for the safety guidelines for projects. Patricia Spitzley inquired if number one on the list is a one-time cost or could it be done in phases. Brett Kaschinske stated he does not know how the project could be phased. There will be an assessment of a load rating, but at this time no vehicle traffic like mowers and golf carts, has been suspended. List provided as follows: 1. RiverTrail boardwalk repair under Grand River Avenue bridge $ 400,000 2. Crego fishing dock 55,800 3. Crego boardwalk 125,000 4. Gier and Davis ballfield backstop extensions 15.000 5. Numerous parking lot paving 100,000 6. RiverTrail acquisition of Conrail right-of-way 300,000 7. Riverfront Park acquisition of railroad right-of-way 100,000 8. Riverfront irrigation controls on west side of park 24,000 9. RiverTrail acquisition of BW&L parcel — NW trail extension 200,000 10. RiverTrail Moores to Riverside Park 3,200,000 11. RiverTrail Michigan Avenue to Cherry Hill Park 3,300,000 12. RiverTrail north extension to Delta Township 2,500,000 13. Washington Park development of modular skate park 175,000 14. Ranney gazebo and loop trail 350,000 15. Beck pavilion and loop trail 300,000 16. Clifford loop trail 100,000 17. Turner Dodge painting 60,000 18. Kids Camp Cumberland and Beekman sites 35,000 19. Davis 4 court basketball complex 275,000 20. Cherry Hill canoe and kayak launch, walk, parking lot expansion 15,000 21. Kingsley splash playground 350,000 22. Moores pool renovation 750,000 23. Numerous Citywide repair and maintenance 40,000 24. Numerous RiverTrail paving projects 50,000 Total $12,819,800 Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved May 8, 2013 PARK BOARD NOTES Foster Community Center April 10, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Paul Holland, Olivia Martin, Patricia Spitzley MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher, Adam Hussain OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Patti Pizzano, potential board member; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:10 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA None = STATEMENT OF CITIZENS - None BOARD MEETING MINUTES Tabled until May 8, 2013 meeting due to lack of quroum NEW BUSINESS Consumers Pathway— Davis Park Brett Kaschinske reviewed a map of Davis Park, the power line which runs across the south end of town and the proposed pathway. This pathway would take people through Davis Park as well as improving site lines for people crossing Pleasant Grove. This path would hook up with the existing path in Davis Park. Budget Brett Kaschinske provided copies of the draft budget, reviewed each line item and what is included. There will not be many changes from last year. The new line item is Information Technology (IT) which is sectioned out and each department will receive an allocation. Paul Holland inquired if the salary increases are due to the elimination of furlough days. Kaschinske stated yes. Rick Kibbey inquired if there is a procedure in place for receiving reports from Forestry. Kaschinske stated he would request a report from Paul Dykema. Rick Kibbey inquired about the fringe benefits included in the department budget and is this something new. Kaschinske stated fringes were at one time under Human Resources, but for several years they have been included in individual department budgets. Kibbey inquired why the amount dropped. Kaschinske stated it is due to the increased employee contributions. Rick Kibbey inquired how active the Turner Dodge Board is. Kaschinske explained Turner Dodge is a friend's board and Fenner's board is a Board of Directors. The City maintains plowing, mowing and building maintenance at Fenner. Fenner will be taking on janitorial services and we are looking for them to take on temporary employee payroll to assist with reducing the City's subsidy. Total budget is $7,000,000 in General Funds. PARK BOARD MINUTES—APRIL 10, 2013 PAGE 2 Brett Kaschinske reviewed cemetery and golf budgets. Board members questioned the amount for salaries and fringe benefits and why the fringes are more than the wages. Kaschinske stated he would check into the figures. Brett Kaschinske stated there are fee increases for cemeteries, golf and some Leisure Services programs. Rick Kibbey stated from a policy stand point it is hard to subsidize golf by $521,000. Brett Kaschinske stated if someone took over the golf course, principal and interest for the drain project and administrative expenses would not go away. OLD BUSINESS Tobacco Free Parks Olivia Martin stated she was not at the March meeting and inquired what the Board's position was on this subject. Patricia Spitzley stated she is personally against putting a rule out that we cannot enforce. Paul Holland stated there is not a compelling public health issue. Dugouts and playgrounds are different and he believes that is handled by individuals. Putting up a sign appears it will be a rule and it is not. Brett Kaschinske stated Lansing Parks and Recreation has not received an amount of complaints on this matter. He has been asked by individuals at concerts, but it is the individual's right to smoke and an individual's right to move. Patricia Spitzley stated there is not an ordinance and this could not be enforced. Park Inventory Rick Kibbey tabled this item. Meeting adjourned 9:00 p.m. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved May 8, 2013 PARK BOARD NOTES Schmidt Southside Community Center July 10, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Adam Hussain, Paul Holland, Olivia Martin, Patricia Spitzley, Patricia Pisano MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher (excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:12 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA _ Brett Kaschinske deleted Todd Martin Development Fund from agenda; representative will be at AuguMmeeting. E2 STATEMENT OF CITIZENS ; cC-, ±r I None C-_ Fri BOARD MEETING MINUTES r� w M rT; Adam Hussain moved to approve the May 8, 2013 minutes as submitted; seconded by Olivia Maitm. yeas; 0 nays. Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Officer Elections Rick Kibbey turned meeting over to Paul Holland. Olivia Martin nominated Rick Kibbey for President, seconded by Paul Holland. Adam Hussain stated he would normally recommend shifting president, but this board would be an exception due to the amount of time and commitment Rick Kibbey devotes to the board. With no further nominations or discussion motion is carried with 5 yeas; 0 nays. Rick Kibbey opened the floor for nominations for Vice-President. Paul Holland nominated Dusty Fancher pending her acceptance; seconded by Adam Hussain. With no further nominations or discussion motion is carried with 5 yeas; 0 nays. Rick Kibbey stated he would contact Dusty Fancher for her acceptance. Park Re-alignment Rick Kibbey provided a list of parcels found unlikely to be fit for park use in the foreseeable future. There were questions on what this was based on. Previous discussion was to agree to a set of principles of what we are trying to do with the park system. Rick Kibbey stated there are a number of places that issue guidelines and ratios on how many acres of park land for what percentage of people. National Recreation Park Association has guidelines, the school district has one, and the American Planning Association has one. The City has done five master plans and the first four have specific recreation sections in them, which is where a lot of the recommendations for today's information came from. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JULY 10, 2013 PAGE 2 What we were trying to avoid is to cut a set percentage of parks. Kibbey reviewed the list of uses for parks; flood control, land use buffer/property enhancement; office (worker amenity, riverfront), education, character and cultural development, family support (weddings, reunions, play), environmental protection, recreation (rivertrail, neighborhood playgrounds, ballfields), city identity/image, public health, and economic development. Paul Holland recommended reviewing the park maps and discussing this later. Brett Kaschinske stated dedicated parks have to go to a vote of the public and before that he wants the list to come to the Park Board. In order for it to go on the November ballot it has to be to Council before the end of August so this discussion would need to take place at the August Park Board meeting. Patricia Spitzley suggested the Board meets in August with a sparse agenda and this subject be the primary item on the agenda. Patricia Spitzley inquired about the wording "the following parcels were found to be unlikely to be fit for park use in the foreseeable future" and does this wording mean these are suggestions to take a look at. Brett Kaschinske clarified a parcel, in our terms, is not a dedicated piece of land. In other words we have some parcels that are not dedicated park land and do not need to go before a vote of the public. Hope Soccer Complex Brett Kaschinske stated earlier this year he received an e-mail from the Ingham County Parks Director with the history of rentals at Hope Complex. There was a downward trend and the lease is scheduled to expire July 27, 2013, if the downward trend continues Director Willis will be recommending to the commissioners to not renew the lease. The spring numbers were not favorable; Kaschinske stated he contacted several private entities and the City of East Lansing who he thought may be interested in the complex. Kaschinske stated he received a proposal from SBC Chill Soccer/Mid-Michigan Turf, Kevin and Julie Mullin, who own the Chill Soccer Club. SBC Chill is a for profit club. They want to take the complex as is and they would like to add another field with a synthetic turf. This new field will not impact the landfill and all variables have been reviewed. The City has entered into a five (5) year contract. It requires them to submit any new fees or changes to the field to the Director for approval. It requires fair and open treatment to reserving the field, with preference given to Lansing Parks and Recreation. We are asking this group to help assist us with training soccer coaches. They are planning on tournaments, which is a goal of theirs to bring in more tournaments. They are also looking at hosting other sports. SBC Chill will be paying a $15,000 deposit, $1,000 annually for the lease and carry the required insurance. Patricia Spitzley has concerns regarding liability language and the indemnification language and releasing the City of responsibility. Kaschinske provided her a copy of the contract and the language is appropriate. Adam Hussain inquired about the City Pulse article and when did the County come in and say they were trying to construct a six month agreement or is the article inaccurate. Brett Kaschinske stated the Mayor had a rebuttal in the current City Pulse. The Mayor met with the County Commissioners on this subject, which did not come up until we sent the letter that we were interested in breaking the lease and we received the response. The City has a great relationship with the County on many different fronts and the City would not have considered shopping this out if the County wanted to continue. Grand Woods Brett Kaschinske stated he, Mayor, Chad Gamble and Bob Johnson met with the Delta Township Supervisor to discuss the lease the City has with Delta on this property. The lease is up in 2014 and we have discussed if at the end of the lease if Delta would be interested in purchasing the park. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JULY 10, 2013 PAGE 3 Delta Township inquired what the price would be; the City does not have a value or an appraisal on the property. Delta is interested it the property. Information Brett Kaschinske reviewed Concert in the Parks schedule and July 4th events. There have been two media requests; one is from channel 10 regarding Westside Ballpark. Westside is our second adult baseball field. There are some maintenance issues we need to get taken care of regarding the conditions of the field. We did have a player take a ball to the mouth from a grounder at first base. Someone from the league contacted the media and they wanted to do a story. The leagues are complaining about the condition of the field. Kaschinske stated some of his points are we play more games on our surfaces than the Lugnuts do. We play two and three games every night. Bad hops happen all the time, but we did see some issues we could correct and took the opportunity to do so. Kaschinske stated he received a call from the City Pulse regarding busses that depart from our community centers to Walmart. We have not seen the busses and we have not been informed about the program. Kaschinske stated he will be calling the City Pulse tomorrow. Updates Brett Kaschinske stated we received a $4,000 grant from Capital Region Community Foundation for our Fitness in a Box program. We also received a $6,000 grant from Jackson National Life Insurance for the youth scholarship program. We have received bids back for Crego Park. Kaschinske provided and reviewed the schematics of the plan. Construction came in 3% under estimate; this is just under a $700,000 project funded through the DNR Trust Fund Grant we received. Rick Kibbey inquired about the gate. Kaschinske stated it will be an electronic gate dawn to dusk. Patricia Pisano inquired about a timeline. Kaschinske stated it will be this fall. Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. PARK BOARD NOTES Schmidt Southside Community Center August 14, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Paul Holland, Olivia Martin, MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher, Patricia Spitzley, Patricia Pisano, Adam Hussain OTHERS PRESENT: Mike Schury, President Westside Neighborhood Association; Nancy Danhof, Executive Director Todd Martin Development Fund; Paul Dykema, Assistant Superintendent of Public Service; Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:02 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA Brett Kaschinske introduced Nila Husby, new part time Aquatics Programmer. STATEMENT OF CITIZENS None - r-; �rl BOARD MEETING MINUTES Tabled until September meeting due to lack of quorum. C­ l� NEW BUSINESS := Un Forestry Program Paul Holland had a list of trees to be removed or that have already been removed which included 5 removed trees and 36 more trees to be removed. Holland stated they have heard from Public Service there is a 95% replacement of removed trees; however this is not the case on the Westside. Holland asked what the replacement rate for the Westside is and the 41 trees. Paul Dykema stated they evaluate what can be cut down with attention given to street trees which has a higher failure rate. They started last October and plan to finish by September 1 only to start again to evaluate city wide. It varies each year between 700 and 1200 trees and in cases, such as the Emerald Ash, it was at the higher end. Dykema stated the planting program fluctuates between 450 and 800 trees and has never been in sync with the removal of trees; there has always been a lag. In addition it has evolved over the years and new sites have been considered and what were once thought to be good sites are no longer considered. This fall and winter they will go through the Westside to find sites with help from the neighborhood to determine sites, provide instruction on how to dig holes and what type of trees will be delivered. Paul Holland asked for a ballpark figure of the number of trees produced in the nursery. Paul Dykema stated the number is declining due to the lack of staff to run the nursery and shutting down the nurseries. There is a Request for Proposal (RFP) out to purchase trees. Rick Kibby inquired if all the nurseries were being closed. Dykema stated yes. Paul Holland clarified the City does not have an RFP at this time, so the City purchases ad-hoc. Dykema stated yes, he purchases bare root trees PARK BOARD MINUTES-AUGUST 14, 2013 PAGE 2 Paul Holland inquired the price range of the purchased trees. Dykema stated $19 for common trees to $50 for specialty trees. Paul Holland stated if the City were to cut 1,000 trees they should replace 1,000 trees, but this is not happening. Is it due to the price of the tree or city labor? Holland inquired if we can organize a committed group and if a neighborhood organization could do a one to one match does the City have $15 and the neighborhood could match $15. The match would need to be approved by the neighborhood association and they would like to see every tree replaced. Paul Dykema stated they would look at the neighborhood, check visibility, future damage to sidewalks and available sites. Rick Kibbey would like to hear how this project is progressing and see if it could be done in other neighborhoods. Mike Schury stated the Westside wants to partner with the city and there is money to match. Schury stated the neighborhood board is meeting tomorrow and he would need to how much is needed to match and how to proceed with the match to the City if the association approves. Paul Holland clarified planting would be between April and May. Brett Kaschinske inquired about gator bags to water the trees and instructions for neighbors on how to maintain the trees. Also, want to make sure the individual who has the tree planted in front of their home is willing to water the tree. Mike Schury inquired if there is a list of approved trees. Dykema stated the list of non-approved trees is shorter. Todd Martin Tennis Nancy Danhof, Executive Director Todd Martin Development Fund (TMDF), stated they run a summer tennis program and after school program. Todd Martin was a resident of Lansing and East Lansing. He became a pro tennis player in 1992 at the age of 18. In 1993 he, his father and Rich Ferman decided to make tennis available to area youth and worked in cooperation with the Capital Region Community Foundation until TMDF became a 501 c3. The program started small with 30 students. Todd's idea was to use the Code of Conduct governed by tennis worldwide, and that is tennis is a life skill. Once TMDF obtained 501c3 status, they started their own leadership program and this summer there were over 300 youth who participated. The program uses a national curriculum called First Serve. This is a three year minimum program with rigorous standards. The first level is known as Game; second level is Set and third level is Match. It is for grades 4 through 7. Once the three levels are completed, youth enter the leadership portion begin to give back to the community. This program also provides tutoring and mentoring. This program is broad and far reaching beyond tennis. Tennis is the hook to get youth interested and involved in a sport. The program starts with the Quick Start method utilizing smaller courts, large foam balls, and a large racquet; youth are able to play in about an hour. The summer program meets five days a week and is for ages 8 to12 and 13 to 18. Leadership speakers are brought in on for the older kids and activities are done with the younger kids. Fridays are field trips to take the kids outside of the community and outside of their 20 block area. TMDF's dream is to partner with Lansing Parks and Recreation and USTA to rebuild Washington Park into an outdoor tennis facility and learning center. OLD BUSINESS PARK BOARD MINUTES—AUGUST 14, 2013 PAGE 3 Park Re-alignment Rick Kibbey stated he sat down and looked over the material and realized this is a plan. He thinks the board took are of the concerns that were the driving force of this report. It would not be too soon to work on the upcoming master plan for 2015. There are three ways to do this: one would be to set up a board committee; second would be to set up a board and public committee with 3 or 4 neighborhood representatives; and third is to go ahead and start the planning process. Previously the plan was to develop lists for funding from DNR grants; however this is not as big a part of the plan as it used to be. Rick Kibbey stated when the money from the sale of Red Cedar or Waverly is available it would be a starting point for a parks foundation. Foundations are usually involved with non-profits. Rick Kibbey inquired if it would make sense to start the 5-year plan early and start with what is already on the table with the park re-alignment. Olivia stated before the RFP goes out, she would like the board to look at it and discuss the priorities for the new RFP. Brett Kaschinske stated MRPA is looking at a larger scale for plans, such as county wide or tri-county wide. Paul Holland inquired how often the plan is referred to. He is hesitant to start planning for the next 5-year plan while in a 5-year plan and base it on emergency situations. Olivia Martin and Paul Holland agree on a board committee. Meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. PARK BOARD MINUTES Schmidt Southside Community Center September 11, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Olivia Martin, Patricia Spitzley, Adam Hussain, Patricia Pisano MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Holland, Dusty Fancher OTHERS PRESENT: Shelton Tyson; Graciela Tyson; Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS BOARD MEETING MINUTES :g Adam Hussain inquired about the August minutes and if further discussion took place on Westside trece repWemg t. Brett Kaschinske stated yes and an agreement is being worked on. Patricia Spitzley inquired if there is an agreement or safe guards set up should someone from the neiftbrh d get hurt while performing the work. Kaschinske stated yes, we would use the adopt-a-park policy. Patricia Spitzley moved to approve the July 10,2013 and August 14, 2013 minutes as submitted; seconded by Adam Hussain. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Oak Park Shelton Tyson, Eastern Neighborhood, is trying to get Oak Park baseball field named in honor of John Stauffer and Jim Herbert and develop a little league field. He has talked with individuals and businesses that are willing to help with the cost of this project. Rick Kibbey explained where the park is located and Brett Kaschinske referred to a map to indicate the ball field. Kibbey stated he is not disinclined to this project, but he is curious about where the kids are coming from that would utilize this field. Tyson stated they would mostly come from the surrounding neighborhoods. Patricia Spitzley clarified if there is an existing field there that needs to be improved. Kaschinske stated there is a back stop, soccer goals and the field is probably being used for kickball. The field is currently all grass. Rick Kibbey inquired what would need to be done to use this as a baseball field. Kaschinske stated if it was to be used as a youth field the easiest maintenance would be to skin the infield, to remove the grass. You could move the mound and bases depending on the ages. PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 11, 2013 PAGE 2 Kaschinske stated the grounds manager listed out what would need to be done to upgrade the field as follows: 1- The backstop would need new boards 6 feet up from the ground. 2—Additional grading would need to be done because the current back stop footings are showing 3—Permanent soccer goals would need to be removed. 4—Mounted benches need to be removed. 5—Two water dome beehive drains are currently in the field of play 6—Two manhole covers would need to be moved. Drainage is an issue. Patricia Spitzley inquired if we have, as a Parks and Recreation organization,the need additional ball field capacity. Kaschinske stated no, we currently play different locations throughout the city. Tyson inquired if there is a problem to develop this into a league field. Kaschinske stated parking is an issue and going to single field maintenance instead of a complex is additional maintenance. Spitzley inquired if the drains have been there all along what the concerns are now. Kaschinske stated if it is developed into a baseball field, we are inviting more use and there would be objects in the field of play. Kaschinske stated he does not know what the cost would be for the upgrades. Spitzley asked Tyson if the department does not commit to the upgrading of the park is he still interested in renaming the field to honor Mr.Stauffer and Mr. Herbert. Tyson stated yes. Tyson inquired if the drainage issues would stop the skinning of the field for practice rather than league play. Kaschinske stated he would refer that question to the city attorney due to liability. Kibbey stated this is an old school neighborhood park and these are two great gentlemen to dedicate the field after. Before involving the city attorney he would recommend creating a drawing to show the drains and how the ball field could be laid out. Spitzley recommended looking at our park inventory and reviewing if it is appropriate to expend the money to upgrade this park. She is for renaming the field. Kaschinske asked Mr.Tyson if they are asking for city money. Tyson stated he is asking for permission. Spitzley recommended starting with renaming the field and come back to the board with what it will cost for the upgrades. Kibbey clarified they are asking for permission to work with the city to come up with a cost. He would hold off on the memorial until we know what we are naming at the site. Tyson inquired if there is confusion on what is being named. PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 11, 2013 PAGE 3 Spitzley and Martin verified this was for the existing back stop. Tyson stated yes. Hussain stated the type of memorial needs to be identified in order to be approved. Martin moved to name the existing baseball diamond, as it is, after Mr. Stauffer and Mr. Herbert. Supported by Spiztley. 5 yeas; 0 nays Kaschinske stated he would want to see the wording on the plaque and how it will be installed before actual installation. Motion carried 2014 Meeting Schedule Rick Kibbey stated this is regarding the Board meeting at one location each month or to continue rotating throughout the community centers. Kibbey stated holding the meeting at one location would mean board members and the public would always know where the meeting is being held. Martin stated the point of different locations was to be accessible to various neighborhood groups. Hussain stated even with the different locations we do not get the public turn out and it is confusing. Spitzley stated the meetings need to be central and on a bus line, which Gier and Schmidt Center are not. Kibbey stated department staff have their offices at Foster and are accessible to files and information during the meeting. Kaschinske also added there are more rooms at Foster and would not impact a class or program like it would at the smaller centers. The Board supports a single location; Spitzley stated due to the room Foster makes sense. Hussain favors Letts, but does not want to impact programs and classes. Board members agree beginning January 2014 the monthly meetings will be held at Foster Center. OLD BUSINESS Parks Foundation Kibbey stated there has been discussion on a couple of occasions regarding the sale of Red Cedar and what to do with the money. The City has an established policy that any sale of dedicated park land is supposed to go to acquisition of additional park land or capital improvements. In addition to this we have noticed over the years an increasing number in approaches to the Board, such as this evening, where the public has offered to partner with us to increase the utilization of our facilities. There is a need to become more systematic about our approach to this and how can this be addressed. One part is some means of holding money that may come our way for future purposes; and second is the creation of a foundation. Creating a foundation creates an opportunity to fold into the process the "friends of friends" which incorporates various friends' organizations into one friend's organization. PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 11, 2013 PAGE 4 Kibbey stated he and Kaschinske recently visited Grand Rapids and they have full blown friend's organization. There are usually three ways, such as park sale money and interest, special events, and program fees. Spitzley inquired if the parks still belong to Grand Rapids. Kibbey stated yes. Martin inquired what the foundation would spend money on. Kibbey stated he was captivated by the last meeting and the tree partnership with the Westside Neighborhood Association. Spitzley stated she could see neighborhood association groups petitioning the foundation for small grants. Martin asked if the Board should come up with a suggestion to provide to Council for use. Spitzley inquired if the Board can establish the foundation. Kibbey stated yes. Spitzley clarified there needs to be an established mechanism to route funds to the foundation. Kaschinske stated Grand Rapids started this in 2008 when the Mayor of Grand Rapids mandated it be done or there would not be a parks system.Their situation is eerily like Lansing and they started with $25,000. Kaschinske stated this would also assist with grants because the foundation would be established as a 501(c)(3). Spitzley inquired if there is support in the City for this. Kaschinske stated yes and this is his mission for the Parks Department. The Parks Department is a $6.5 million dollar city funded department. Grand Rapids has 13 to 17 funding sources. Martin inquired when the foundation has money would the city remove funding from the department. Spitzley asked what the process is. Kaschinske stated we start with Articles of Incorporation and establish bylaws. Kaschinske stated Grand Rapids has a millage coming up and the millage language states the city would continue with the existing subsidy. Spitzley inquired what would happen with the current Park Board, would it continue to exist or would the two blend together. Kaschinske stated the two could be blended together, but they are different and would require two different skill sets. Who appoints and governs is different than the Park Board. Wood Chip Program Kaschinske stated there was a need to spread woodchips in the playgrounds so he went to the Neighborhood Council to get neighborhoods involved. Churches, neighborhood organizations, and youth groups have come out to work on this. The program is going well. INFORMATION Kaschinske provided the following: PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 11, 2013 PAGE 5 Busby Memorial is starting this weekend. New fall activity guides are out Crego Park has started Frances Park pathway along Moores River Driver has a failure and we are in the process of going back to the designer. Spitzley asked what is going on with the roses at Frances Park. Kaschinske stated there was a rose kill from last winter. The city is sitting down to find out what can be done with the staff we have or do we contract out the maintenance. Meeting adjourned 9:00 p.m. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved December 11, 2013 PARK BOARD MINUTES Letts Community Center October 9, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Olivia Martin, Adam Hussain MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Holland, Dusty Fancher, Patricia Spitzley, Patricia Pisano OTHERS PRESENT: Bob Every, Greater Lansing Hall of Fame (GLHF); Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:15 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA Brett Kaschinske added county millage under new business. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS BOARD MEETING MINUTES N. Fri September 11, 2013 minutes tabled until next month due to lack of quorum. c �� NEW BUSINESS Ranney Park Bob Every, Greater Lansing Hall of Fame, submitted an application to place a plaque at Ranney Ballfield to honor Dr. Ranney. Dr. George Ranney is who Ranney Park is already named for. Dr. Ranney was a Civil War surgeon in 1864 and was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1901 for extraordinary heroism and bravery above and beyond the call of duty. He was the first to receive a Congressional Medal of Honor. Dr. Ranney settled in Lansing and became well known for several medical achievements. He married into the Sparrow family and is buried at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Dr. Ranney donated the land to the citizens of Lansing for a park and recreational purpose. Bob Every stated at this time there is not a plaque at Ranney recognizing and acknowledging Dr. Ranney and since he donated so much it would be deserving. Every would like to see if the Board would support this. GLHF would purchase the plaque for around $3,500, with the City providing installation. The plaque would be placed on the score tower facing the Frandor parking lot. Every stated the GLHF sponsors the Girl's Hall of Fame All Star Game at Ranney each year and he thinks it would be nice to have a plaque on site. Every would recommend dedicating the plaque on June 23, 2014 at the All Star Game. There would be a large crowd, plus media coverage for all the games. Adam Hussain inquired if the recommended installation site is the best visibility. Every stated yes. Brett Kaschinske stated there are different entries to the park but this site would allow us to have something to attach it to and should high enough to resist graffiti. Rick Kibbey stated the GLHF is an outstanding example of a group stepping up and taking ownership of a park by maintaining it and running programs. PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 9, 2013 PAGE 2 Brett Kaschinske stated when items of this nature come before the board and there is a cost attached it may not be obtainable, however, Bob Every has the money to support this dedication. This plaque is not a renaming of the park, because it is already named Ranney Park after Dr. Ranney, but a way of providing history on the person it is already named after. Olivia Martin inquired if a motion could be made without a quorum. Kibbey stated yes. Olivia Martin moved to approve the dedication memorial to Dr. Ranney with an electronic vote from the absent board members. 3 yeas; 0 nays. **An e-mail was sent on Thursday morning, October 10, 2013 to the absent board members. Dusty Fancher, Paul Holland and Patricia Pisano all responded with a yea vote. Mr. Every was notified accordingly. Motion carried. 6 yeas; 0 nays; County Millage Olivia Martin inquired if the county needs more money for their parks. Rick Kibbey stated this is collaboration with the county commissioners. This was first brought up last August without preparation. There is now language that has been prepared. Brett Kaschinske stated he received an e-mail from Willis Bennett, Ingham County Parks Director, with some of the language which is 'Ingham County proposes to create a county system of recreational trails and adjacent parks. This system may incorporate trails or parks previously created by local units of government, including Lansing's River Trail, and may acquire rights of way to connect and extend existing trails. For the purpose of creating and operating such a county trail system, shall Ingham County be permitted to levy a tax of not more than 0.50 mills, that being... " Brett Kaschinske stated he had just heard today this item may have been pulled. Olivia Martin inquired if the commissioners are friendly to Lansing Parks. Rick Kibbey stated yes. Olivia Martin inquired if this would pass now. Brett Kaschinske stated this would be next November and yes it would. The battle will be what is in for the areas that do not have parks in their districts. The plan is to get it on the ballot and get support for the millage. Brett Kaschinske stated he and Rick Kibbey met with a group yesterday to discuss a Friends of Rivertrail. Rick Kibbey stated when this came up before; residents did not feel it was their responsibility to bail out the city. The rational on the zoo millage is that county wide residents do use it. Olivia Martin inquired if there is data on Rivertrail use. Brett Kaschinske stated yes there is and it was done by MSU a while ago. Adam Hussain inquired when the current Park Millage will expire. Kaschinske stated 2015. Hussain inquired how this new millage could impact us and the park millage. PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 9, 2013 PAGE 3 Brett Kaschinske stated that is on his mind and he has concerns about how our millage was used for subsidies. He will rely on a list of projects that have been done during the last five years that millage money was used for such as; Crego which is a 200 acre park that will be linked to the rivertrail, baby land at the cemetery has been improved, and a fence project at Foster Center to name a few. Also, this millage is a renewal and we have put out Request for Proposals to reduce the subsidies. Brett Kaschinske stated both the park millage and county millage would come up close together and will require work from the board. Adam Hussain stated with the lack of CIP projects and naturalization over the last few years it will be a challenge. Olivia Martin does not think the millage for the county will pass. Rick Kibbey asked Brett Kaschinske for public information to prepare for the millage. OLD BUSINESS Foundation/Friends of Parks Rick Kibbey stated his goal is to have Articles of Incorporation by the next meeting; then present the Bylaws. UPDATES Cemetery Events Brett Kaschinske stated the Friends of Lansing Historic Cemeteries (FOLHC) had over 100 people at their Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt event this past Saturday. They have done a great job on exposure. The fundraiser is for the FOLHC, but they put the money back into the cemeteries with projects. Olivia Martin inquired if this group would be an example of a subset under the Parks Foundation. Kaschinske stated yes, as would the Friends of Rivertrail group he is trying to establish. Crego Brett Kaschinske stated construction has started and this should be done in November. A grand opening will be at a later date. REMARKS BY BOARD MEMBERS Adam Hussain stated he wanted to speak on the lack of quorum. He understands it is a citizen advisory board, but why is it taking so long to get members on the board. Brett Kaschinske state he spoke with Joe McDonald and he will talk with Joe again and let him know it was brought up at the meeting. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved December 11, 2013 PARK BOARD MINUTES Letts Community Center November 13, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Olivia Martin, Paul Holland, Patricia Pisano MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher, Patricia Spitzley, Adam Hussain OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m. �� ry ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA " "a � M None STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS r CJ3 None BOARD MEETING MINUTES September 11, 2013 and October 9, 2013 minutes tabled until next month due to lack of quorum. NEW BUSINESS Parks 5-Year Mast Plan Goals Kaschinske stated he would like the Board to look at goals and reviewed the goals in the current 5-year plan. Kaschinske inquired if the Board wants to keep some of the goals or change some of them. The current goals are: - Maintain safe parks - To promote and enhance the financial stability of the Lansing Parks system through recreational economic development, regionalization, general fund, millage, grants from Federal, State and local sources, endowment/gifts/donations/corporate partnerships/bonds, evaluation of park land holdings, and user fees and rental rates - Maintain, develop and preserve park lands and facilities in order to provide for the needs of present and future generations - Promote the development of new recreation programs with active sports facilities and passive leisure opportunities which are in high demand, or are innovative, unique or not presently provided by municipal or private sectors. - Promote interaction, involvement and communication between the Parks and Recreation Department, the citizens of Lansing and surrounding communities. Kibbey stated he tried to figure out a process for the Board to go through and have a plan. Two items he considered were storm water management and environmental involvement which is what people bring to a millage vote. Martin added promote physical activity and environmental stewardship to better understand the outdoors. Pisano inquired if there are benefits to having some park land as wetland. Kaschinske stated there could be potential for grant money. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 13, 2013 PAGE 2 Kaschinske stated there is also potential in the future to acquire FEMA properties located in the flood plain. Kibbey stated the Land Bank has taken down hundreds of houses leaving small lots of land all over Lansing. The Land Bank is working in conjunction with the City on FEMA properties. Martin questioned if the City would have funds to make purchases and would the Mayor and Council allow this. We did the inventory this year and some of the parks were not being used as parks. Kibbey stated changes were found in land use and the City trimmed away some of the properties are managed. Kaschinske stated there could be other funding sources through the Land Bank or FEMA. Board members recommended the following goals: - Remain financially stable - Storm water management system - Promote and support physical and mental health of population - Strive to meet and anticipate outdoor space needs and desires of neighborhood population - Continue to provide a place to gather and engage in physical activities and experience a natural environment. - Manage urban natural areas for wildlife, birds, etc. - Flood plain properties—FEMA - Land Bank properties - Add endowment/park foundation - Regionalize trail system/funding source - Trees, number of plantings vs. removal—volunteer projects to engage neighbors - Identify recreational needs of different ethnic groups - Increase river activities/properties—canoe/kayak launches, media promotion, water recreation, riverwalk expansion, public/private opportunities with businesses on parkland - Playground replacement plan in 5-year increments Kaschinske inquired about the current goals. Martin stated to maintain safe parks needs to remain. Kaschinske stated maybe not as a goal, but more as a function. Martin stated financial stability is a goal, but it would not be on the top of her list. If we were to keep financial stability she would recommend adding to it about the endowment. She would personally not want to highlight regionalization. Holland stated his issue with the first two goals is they are not measurable and should be part of parks, but not as a goal. Also not sure why general fund is a goal Kaschinske replied there are many sources of funding the department has for programs now and what are the percentages. In other words what is the percentage of general fund dollars going to parks and recreation? The general fund is the overwhelming biggest piece and can we make some of that regional or parks foundation. Holland stated those questions are not goals. If the goal is to increase general funding or diversify funding to the department it is a goal, but the current plan stated general fund. Kaschinske stated he would put in the plan the percentages of funding now and get the Board's opinion on diversifying the funds. Martin clarified she thought the task tonight was to come up with goals and then Kaschinske would come up with details of the goals. Kaschinske stated everyone will be involved and working on the goals. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 13, 2013 PAGE 3 Kibbey stated when he thinks of safety as a goal and what we will do; there is not a person in the department whose job it is to ensure the parks are safe. His experience is if it is not someone's job it does not get done. Martin stated it is also a goal for the Board and there have been discussions on safety. Holland inquired in the last three years, has the five-year plan been referred to by the department or the board. Kaschinske stated yes, when grants are being pursued and how the grant would fit within the plan. Holland stated we should define the purpose of the master plan. If it is for grants then the goals and objectives should be primarily about how we grow and develop the parks systems. Having issues about safe parks, which is standard operating procedure, or financial stability are fluff. He would recommend a more targeted document, what it would be used for and what the goals are directly related to in order to measure it in five years. Martin agreed and stated when she thought of goals,financial stability and safety did not come to mind as goals. Kibbey also agreed. When he was working on this it was directive to provide guidance to park staff,volunteer groups and the Board. Kaschinske stated one of the things he has heard repeatedly from the Board is tree planting and should that be a goal. Martin stated yes, and maybe a better way to go about this is for members to come up with their own goals and then go through the old goals. Holland inquired what the accepted typology is between a goal and an objective. He understands you set a goal and set objectives to meet it. Kaschinske stated he would not be as concerned whether it is a goal or an objective but to get it on the list and sort it out. Martin inquired what the goal is for this evening. At the committee meeting it was discussed to come with goals, finding objectives and bringing the ideas back to the Board. Kaschinske stated this is a brainstorming session to come up with ideas. Holland clarified if the plan is a sweetener for grants or do you need to have something in the plan to point to in order to apply for grants or can you apply for any grants that come up and it helps to be able to point to something in the plan. Kaschinske stated if you are going for a State Trust Fund grant, which is the majority of grants we have applied for and won, you must have a five-year plan on file for the project and how you show it in the plan adds more points. Holland stated the incentive would be to put everything we possibly could into the plan so when grants come up we could qualify for as many grants as possible. Kaschinske stated with the State, having the plan on file and applying for a grant for a project that fits in the five year plan does warrant more points, he is not sure we need to have everything in the plan. Holland stated his natural inclination is to have a very small set of measurable goals; however if having a bunch of stuff listed helps get grants he is for putting everything in the plan. Kaschinske stated we put our goals up on the board and see how we can categorize the goals. Kibbey stated the City is up in the air about this department and he is inclined to use this as the Board's LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 13, 2013 PAGE 4 internal process to see what we want done, such as land, trees or recreation programs. This is also a time to use ingenuity to seek new opportunities such as public service and international (ethnicity) aspects. Kibbey stated it has not been done for the last couple of plans, but two censuses ago there was an analysis of the census in terms of what is the population like within walking distance of the park. He suggests not looking at things as a goal or objective, but whether or not it is a commitment we want to make. Martin would like to see some language to engage adjacent homeowners where trees are involved. Kaschinske stated 20 years ago Project Play redid playgrounds throughout the city and 20 years is a long time for a playground. There are 75 playgrounds in the city and he does not plan on replacing each one since new playgrounds cost approximately$45,000. OLD BUSINESS Foundation Kibbey stated the paperwork is ready and he would like to review it with Kaschinske and any board members before filing it. Holland recommended a 14 to 16 member board with the current Park Board members and non-park board members. Create an infrastructure guide for starting individual friends of parks and allow a fundraising mechanism. Friends of River Trail Kibbey stated we were approached by a group of runners who are well organized and identified a foundation that makes grants for river trail improvements. They want to recruit and have a closer identification with maintenance and funding of river trail projects. Kaschinske stated there are over 90 people who are interested. We have individuals who have experience running a 501c3 and Playmakers is on board. Martin inquired if the Friends of the River Trail would come under the Parks Foundation. Kaschinske stated that was discussed and the friends would like to be separate for now. Holland stated the River Trail is one instance of regionalization he would support. County Millage Kibbey stated the county is meeting on this subject and the City is part of the discussion. There are a lot of ideas and the vote would be in 2014. UPDATES Crego paving will be done on Monday,the dock is being installed and the canoe/kayak launch is done. The Board may have a new member soon. BOARD MEMBER REMARKS LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 13, 2013 PAGE 5 Holland inquired about the department's part time employees and the new health insurance. Kaschinske stated if the employee work 29 hours or less no insurance is required, however if they work 30 hours or more insurance would need to be offered. At this time there are 5 employees who work 35 hours a week. There is no clear answer at this time but options would be to offer insurance and the employee pay the full premium or reduce their work hours to six hours a day. Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved December 11, 2013 PARK BOARD MINUTES Letts Community Center December 11, 2013 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Olivia Martin, Paul Holland, Patricia Pisano, Adam Hussain MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher, Patricia Spitzley OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary r— N CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA "� �� C-? > `- Kaschinske added guide book to the agenda - Y� STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS r= �? �- r, None BOARD MEETING MINUTES Paul Holland moved to approve the September 11, 2013, October 9, 2013 and November 13, 2013 minutes as submitted; seconded by Adam Hussain. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Articles of Incorporation Kibbey stated he had contacted other area foundation groups and they had two suggestions; one was to keep it simple and second is to have a distance between the government unit and the foundation. Kibbey stated he did not want to submit the document before showing it to the Park Board members. Kibbey provided copies to each board member. Annual Report Kibbey stated an annual report was not completed in 2012. The annual report used to be easier to do and there now needs to be more thought put into the report because the parks still have forestry and mowing, but the forestry division is our"contractor" through Public Service and mowing is contracted out to a company. Kibbey would like to use this opportunity to catch up with forestry reports Kibbey inquired if anyone is interested in assisting with the annual report, to please speak to him. This report needs to be done before the budget process begins which is usually in January. OLD BUSINESS Master Plan Kibbey stated the conversations relevant to the master plan have been interesting. The City has a Landscape, Architect, Planner employed as contracted staff and he has been recruited to work on the master plan. PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 11, 2013 PAGE 2 The last master plan was a community improvement plan and with the changes that have occurred at the zoo and Fenner we will be doing business differently and will update the plan accordingly. The issues identified are as follows: - Naturalization - Drainage—Storm Water Management - Transportation—Access to parks and recreation sources - Habitat - Trails—Paving, Walking, Bicycling - Parks Foundation - River Development - Land Acquisition to assist with future maintenance ie: S&S Die property - Standards—Other organizations such as Lansing School District, MRPA have standards in place - Trees Kibbey stated there will be a series of meetings regarding the new plan. Kaschinske stated he pulled six items from the November minutes which were: - Playground Replacement plan - Storm Water Management - Endowment/Parks Foundation - Trail Regionalization - Trees - River Activities Martin stated she would still like to see something to meet the needs of the different ethnic populations. Kaschinske inquired if trees could be included with naturalization. Holland stated he would like trees as its own goal rather than be combined with naturalization and since forestry is no longer under the Parks Department it is important to keep trees separate. Kaschinske stated he could foresee in the future a volunteer group working with the City to plant trees. Kaschinske inquired about combining storm water management with naturalization. Martin stated trees should be in the bylaws of the Foundation. Hussain inquired how often the plan influences the departments' decisions. Kaschinske stated most recently the pavement for Crego Park to be permeable was derived from the current plan. Kaschinske asked without goals and objectives where else do we go with the master plan. Hussain stated when approaching the plan process, simplicity is essential. Martin inquired if the board needs to simplify with less, could we get rid of storm water management and have the county drain commission manage storm water. Kibbey stated the drain commission does not manage within the city. Kaschinske stated he would keep all of the goals, add the objectives and send it out to board members for review. Kibbey stated difference areas of town will have different objectives. PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 11, 2013 PAGE 3 County Millage Kaschinske stated at this time there is no update since the last meeting. Updates Crego- Kaschinske stated we are in the process of getting automatic gates, installing the dock (deep end) and paving. He is sure there will be ice fisherman soon. Frances—Kaschinske stated he would like to apply for the DNR Passport Grant for 2014 to renovate the garden areas which are overgrown and aging. River Trail Friends—Kaschinske stated there are 99 members, they are looking to form a 5016, a new logo has been created and they have legal assistance working on the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws. Fitness Room—Kaschinske stated Public Service has work out equipment they no longer have room for and are willing to give it to the Parks Department. Rules for use have been established through the City Attorney, this will be open to the public with a membership fee and anyone less than 16 years of age would go through training. Guide Book—The winter/spring guide is out. The Parks Department is working with Public Service to create a combined city wide reference publication that would go to every household. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved April 16, 2014