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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014 Park Board Minutes PARK BOARD MINUTES Foster Community Center January 8, 2014 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Olivia Martin, Patricia Pisano, Patricia Spitzley MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher, Paul Holland, Adam Hussain OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA None r-- N STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS s None BOARD MEETING MINUTES -� o Tabled due to lack of quorum C:3 NEW BUSINESS OLD BUSINESS Master Plan Kaschinske introduced Joe Wright who is currently a contract employee with Public Service. Joe has experience writing master plans and will be working on the Parks master plan. Kaschinske provided a list of goals and objectives to the Board. Wright stated he started to review the existing plan in November and had a meeting afterward to discuss the goal setting process, objectives and to identify what is needed. The plan allows the department to apply for grants; however you no longer need to follow the order in which the goals are submitted. Wright has updated the basic information such as dates, council and board members. A lot of the mandatory information does not change so about 85%of the current document will not change, but the goals and objectives will change. He will take the list of goals and objectives provided and spend the next month writing and developing the plan. Early to late spring it should be to the point to start surveys and hold public meetings to receive input. Late this year or early next year the plan will be ready to present to Council. There is no penalty to having the plan done prior to April 1, 2015. Kaschinske stated along with meetings we will need to utilize social media to obtain the input and results we require. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 8, 2014 PAGE 2 Kibbey stated when he was working on the City's master plan they had fifty neighborhood meetings. The key to the success of those meetings was being prepared and knowing the questions people were going to ask. Kibbey stated he likes the time schedule laid out for this. The Board will do their work in the winter and spring to get ready, and the neighborhood groups will meet in the summer and fall. Kibbey stated the Board will need to decide how to use the demographics and will need to set standards. Martin inquired where the standards would go within the document. Spitzley stated the Boards work is to reevaluate park inventory and naturalization, decide what to discuss and be prepared to answer questions. Kaschinske stated he did not put park inventory on the list. If park inventory(disposal) is on the August or November 2014 ballet, along with a potential county wide millage of some kind,those will be jackpot items. Kibbey stated this is a much better way to approach this. He would much rather have held several meetings regarding the process and have already engaged people rather than putting a letter out about closing or disposing of a property. Spitzley agreed and it needs to be made part of a larger strategy when looking at the master plan. Kaschinske mentioned the millage vote will be in 2015. Wright stated all meetings and surveys regarding the plan will take place in 2014 and the only process that will take place in 2015 is Councils vote and the adoption of the plan. Wright stated at this time there are six goals, each with several objectives. He recommended a public meeting for each individual goal to involve the people who are interested in that particular topic and focus on that goal. Spitzley stated this could be done as part of the Board's monthly meeting. Each month the Board would discuss one goal and receive public input. Kaschinske stated prior to the meeting we would need to have the general survey ready and ask Lansing Neighborhood Council to distribute it to their entire list, and also to the LPD neighborhood watch groups. Spitzley agreed. The survey needs to be started first, a general statement made on the purpose, lay out the meeting and what goal will be presented at the meeting. This would need to be done each month and distributed to the media. Kaschinske stated he would work with Randy Hannan to coordinate with the media. Wright stated the meetings could start in April, continue through September and in October do a recap meeting. This would give him the information he needs in October to incorporate and explain the process in the plan. Kibbey does not like to do surveys first thing, but prefers to do them in the middle or at the end of the meeting schedule. Kaschinske stated surveys are not a requirement, but he has not seen a plan without them. Kaschinske stated the one thing he has found effective with surveys, is not the check a box, but when people can write out their thoughts and comments. Kibbey requested meeting with Wright to write up an outreach strategy, discuss demographics, and would defer to the Parks professionals for the standards. Kaschinske inquired if the Board will be holding these meetings on the second Wednesday at Foster. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 8, 2014 PAGE 3 Spitzley stated she does not think having the meetings at Foster are an issue if the Board also visits community and neighborhood meetings. Wright stated at the end of every major CSO project, Public Service does a picnic in the community to hand out surveys and get feedback about the project and thank the neighborhood for enduring the project. He would recommend maybe three times throughout the summer and Board Members could be in attendance to answer questions. Kibbey stated MDOT and several other institutions use a method of setting a specific meeting place and time, setting up boards with information and having a person in attendance to answer questions. This method seems to work to capture information. Spitzley stated they are similar to an informal meet and greet. There could be a station for each goal with a Board Member at each station to answer questions. This could be done for one-half hour or forty-five minutes, but you still have to have the formal meetings where comment is taken on the record. The meet and greet is successful because people feel like they are actually being heard more so than in a formal public meeting. Wright inquired if this is the final goal list or is there more discussion. Spitzley inquired if more board members are required. Kibbey stated yes he would like a couple more members present. Kaschinske stated he would e-mail it to members for input and it would be a discussion item for next time. Martin disagreed because this has been discussed at the last two meetings and she does not think there will be better attendance, maybe only different attendance. It may be valuable to discuss here, have it recorded in the minutes and approve it at the next meeting. Martin inquired what a riparian buffer is. Kaschinske stated it is vegetation for a natural buffer for erosion control at the edge of water. Martin inquired if we are having trouble with them not being repaired or restored. Kaschinske stated there is always battle of opinion; people want to see the river, they want access right to the edge yet we still need a buffer. Martin stated she would like to advocate for language so the parks are seeking out what the different and changing populations of Lansing are. Kaschinske stated he does not have a problem with it, but he was concerned with not having enough objectives for it. Martin stated there are not many, but community gardens could be part of it. River access could be put in with trails, paving, and walking. River access objectives one, two and four could coordinate into trails. The following changes were made under Storm Water Management to eliminate it as a goal: item three and four were moved to Naturalization; one was placed under Trees; and two and five were moved to River Access. Martin asked to remove number four from Naturalization and create a new goal for population. Kaschinske stated he would work on a revised list and create a new goal title for population. Wright inquired if this could be completed and approved before the next meeting. Kaschinske inquired if anything needs to be deleted. Objectives may be added if necessary. PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 8, 2014 PAGE 4 Spitzley stated the goals have to be established before the public meetings. Objectives may be changed, but the goals have to be set. Kaschinske stated there is plenty of information from the public that is in the current plan, but it did not make it as a goal. Wright stated the public needs to understand this is a planning document and it is not set in stone. Kibbey stated if these are going to be the goals, then they will not change. Most of these are growth and new items, but we need to include playgrounds, etc. Wright reminded the Board the audience for this document is the Department of Natural Resources and grants are the objective of this plan. Articles of Incorporation Kibbey stated the paperwork has been filed. The next two steps are the 501c3 application and application to the Attorney General's office to solicit funds. Spitzley inquired how this will work for current Board Members to be on the foundation board. Kibbey stated he would review other boards' guidelines. Kaschinske stated one interesting document he received from the County was how county employees interact with the foundation, but he would also check it for information on their boards' interaction. Kibbey stated there would be two focuses of this group; one is a fundraising role and the second is the development and nurturing of the friends' network. Annual Report Kibbey stated the annual report used to be a larger project when the Board was more involved with the budget process. Kibbey and Spitzley will work on the 2013 annual report. Kaschinske will send the department's annual report and have the board's last annual report and 2013 minutes e-mailed to Kibbey and Spitzley for information. UPDATES Storm—Trees Kaschinske stated we did well to get the emergencies taken care of. Within one month all the hazards should be out of the way, such as hanging limbs, trees on sidewalks and roads, and in right of ways. Washington Park is a drop site for debris. There is a possibility the City may contract out the tree removal list. Kibbey inquired if Forestry staff were plowing or removing trees. Kaschinske stated they were plowing but are now taking care of trees and Public Service is helping with brush removal. Kaschinske stated there is some River Trail blockage and North Cemetery is closed except for burials.There will be a lot of trimming in the future because there are a lot of wounded trees. Meeting adjourned. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved April 16, 2014 PARK BOARD MINUTES Foster Community Center February 12, 2014 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Adam Hussain, Paul Holland, Patricia Pisano MEMBERS ABSENT: Dusty Fancher, Patricia Spitzley, Olivia Martin OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:05 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA None ry STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS c<' F-71 None r% n BOARD MEETING MINUTES r..� r+ .. Tabled due to lack of quorum ,Z C=) NEW BUSINESS OLD BUSINESS Master Plan—Goals& Obiectives A revised list was provided to the board. Olivia Martin's request for a diversity goal was added as Diversity Recreational Opportunities. Martin responded in an e-mail she was satisfied with the addition. Kibbey stated additions may be made to this as the process progresses. Annual Report Kaschinske stated at the last meeting Rick Kibbey and Patricia Spitzley volunteered to work on this report. Minutes of the entire year for 2013 and the last annual report were e-mailed to Kibbey and Spitzley last month for their information. Articles of Incorporation Kibbey stated the Articles of Incorporation have been filed. The next step is a work plan; since this is a 501c3 it is not under control by another organization. The Board will continue to be updated. Kaschinske stated at the last meeting he said he would check with Ingham County if they have park commissioners on the foundation board. He stated they have two board members that cross over to the foundation board. PARK BOARD MINUTES—FEBRUARY 12, 2014 PAGE 2 Red Cedar Park(added) Kibbey stated the Board moved to sell some or all of Red Cedar Park. This is currently being considered. The development team isn't officially selected yet but it is being narrowed down. They are in town this evening and doing a presentation. Kibbey stated there are two issues; one is retaining some of the land as a park since there are flood plain and flood way areas in the park. In a flood way there are restrictions on what can be done and one is a park. The second issue is who would own the park. There has been discussion by one of the developers that they should own the park because of certain levels of maintenance; that discussion has expanded to reflect the current reality which is all the parks are currently under contract for mowing. Kibbey stated the city and the board are still in this mix. There will be a public process and if the plan is not approved by City Council there will not be a sale. Pisano inquired if the ball field is part of the park. Kaschinske stated the legal description was for Red Cedar Golf Course and Kircher was not part of it. Kaschinske stated he would check on the description and would report next month. Kibbey stated there are several people, groups and organizations involved in this plan. The current plan is receiving negative reviews. UPDATES Friends of Lansing River Trail Friends of Lansing River Trail have filed their Articles of Incorporation. The new group was mentioned in the State of the City address. They have been contacted by Ingham County Park Commission to see how the group may assist with the county wide millage. Kaschinske stated he is looking at volunteer projects for the group to do along the River Trail. The group will be assisting with mile markers and signage, as well as a system to provide location markers for LPD. Kibbey stated late last summer the city approached the county with a county wide millage proposal. Kibbey inquired if there is current language for the millage. Kaschinske stated language as been approved by the County Park Commission, but not by the Board of Commissioners. Turner Dodge Kaschinske had e-mailed out an update and list of items damaged from the Pemberton Collection. Also, the staff person who was working at Turner Dodge,Jennifer McDaniels, has resigned effective immediately. Kibbey stated the Zoo Board is collaborating with Fenner Nature Center on joint programming and this maybe the time for the Friends of Turner to collaborate programming. PARK BOARD MINUTES—FEBRUARY 12, 2014 PAGE 3 CDBG Projects Kaschinske stated there is money available for projects through the Community Development Block Grants and he only has a short time to do projects. The deadline for completion is April 26, 2014 so it needs to be projects that can be done in the weather we are experiencing. The following items will be done for a total of$260,000: - 3 Playgrounds installed—one at Davis Park, Gier Ballfields and Letts Community Center - 3 Electronic Outdoor signs will be installed at Letts Center, Gier Ballfields and Foster Center - Gier Center will be updated with interior LED lights. Grand Woods Park Delta Township has committed to a 2 year agreement and they will pay for the appraisal of the land. Blue Ways A Tri-County Blue Way task force is being put together for the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers for marketing and future vision of recreational use on the two rivers. Mt. Hope Cemetery There will be a $42,000 Fratcher Grant for fiscal year 2015 (July 1, 2014) for Mt. Hope Cemetery for the following projects: - Tree Planting - Tree removal - Stump grinding - Fratcher Memorial Gardens sign for the basin - Road removal and plotting new graves in Section T - Gazebo in the basin area - Perennial and bulb planting throughout the cemetery - Seal basin walkway Meeting adjourned Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved April 16, 2014 PARK BOARD MINUTES Foster Community Center September 10, 2014 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Adam Hussain, Paul Holland, Olivia Martin, Rita O'Brien MEMBERS ABSENT: Veronica Gracia-Wing OTHERS PRESENT: Willis Bennett, Ingham County Parks Director; Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. v ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA _.; 6- y`) r� Paul Holland would like to add to updates; Westside stump removal and REO Town Art Attack Showdomin. FZett�= Kaschinske stated Citywide Art Policy will be moved to October meeting. r STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS None "� ~ BOARD MEETING MINUTES Paul Holland moved to approve the April 23, 2014; May 14, 2014 and June 11, 2014 minutes as submitted. Seconded by Adam Hussain. 5 yeas; 0 nays. Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Election of Officers Rick Kibbey opened floor to nominations. Adam Hussain nominated Rick Kibbey for Board President; Adam Hussain approved the motion, Olivia Martin seconded. No other nominations were made; passed unanimously. Paul Holland nominated Adam Hussain for Board Vice-President; Paul Holland approved the motion, Olivia Martin seconded. No other nominations were made; passed unanimously. Willard Walker Memorial Brett Kaschinske stated this is to re-name St.Joe Park after Willard Walker. Kaschinske reviewed the application submitted for the renaming. Paul Holland asked to table this item until more research is completed. Board voted 5 yeas; 0 nays. Comcast Easement Brett Kaschinske explained this involves Grand River Park and reviewed the map and described the location. This easement would run south behind the businesses on Old Lansing Road before the roadway entrance. Comcast would be paying for this utility easement. Rick Kibbey clarified Comcast is asking for utility easement and to use the utility easement. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 2 Paul Holland inquired if this is above or below ground. Kaschinske stated he would need to check. Rick Kibbey asked what is currently in the utility easement. Kaschinske stated there is water, but he would need to confirm what else is in the easement. Rick Kibbey stated he would want to know what is in the utility easement, would this preclude additional use of the utility easement. Paul Holland inquired about the right-of-way rights and is it a State determined rate or it is negotiated. Brett Kaschinske stated it is negotiated with each utility, but we did have a utility not get permission but proceeded with the installation. Brett Kaschinske clarified the Board wants to know if this is underground or above,what else is in the utilities. Rick Kibbey also wants to know if this inhibits additional uses of the easement. Brett Kaschinske stated he would provide this information in an e-mail and it will be tabled until October for action. Hawk Island Easement Willis Bennett stated he is asking the City of Lansing for an easement for a small piece of property at Scott Woods on the north end of Hawk Island. Bennett reviewed the photos. The run-out which is the bottom of the sled hill protrudes into an area of the dog park which was a muddy area. What the county would like to do is expand the run out of the tubing hill about 40 or 50 feet for safety issues. He is asking for an easement for the small area in Scott Woods. Brett Kaschinske asked Bennett to explain the vegetation. Bennett stated there's a couple of well-established Sycamore trees that the County does not want to remove, but there is a lot of scrub brush that would be removed. Rick Kibbey stated when this originally came up he questioned the sensitivity of Scott Woods as a flooded hardwood area. He reviewed the area and is satisfied with the cutting the County is doing, which is minimal. A berm was also discussed to prevent people walking off into woods. Bennett stated there will be about a 12 foot snow berm created. Brett Kaschinske stated he also discussed with Bennett about the neighbors and the noise of the snow machines running in the evening. Bennett stated they terminated the current contract for snow making and the County will be running the snow machines to eliminate the noise. Also, this season will be focused on tubing instead of snowboarding, which draws a different clientele. The operational hours have also been reduced and will not be open during the week unless it is a special event or group event. Willis Bennett stated if the easement is not granted the County would have to keep the shorter run which takes away from the visitor experience. Kaschinske inquired about the spring thaw and the runoff. Bennett stated it naturally drains out on its own and he talking with the City's engineering department about a drain into the storm drain or it will go back into the lake at Hawk Island. Paul Holland moved to approve the easement for the County; seconded by Olivia Martin. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried OLD BUSINESS Moores Park Pool LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 3 Brett Kaschinske stated Moores Park pool had a rough year due to weather; we also had some problems with maintenance. What is needed from the Park Board is to evaluate the future of Moores Park pool. It has been mentioned at past meetings to involve the neighborhood association with discussions. We are looking at an excess of $750,000, and are these repairs the best use of resources or do we look at other avenues for that facility. Rick Kibbey stated there should be a census report established on the number of kids in the area. Paul Holland asked for attendance for the past few years. Olivia Martin asked for data on the pool since it is historic. Brett Kaschinske stated there was a presentation done this summer by Valerie Marvin and the Historical Society. Kibbey asked for a copy of the presentation. Rick Kibbey stated discussion should take place with the Board first to determine what should be asked of the neighborhood. Park Inventory Brett Kaschinske stated there will be two ballot initiatives on the November ballot; one will be for Grand Woods Park and the other will be for Miller Road Center. Both passed through Council by 8 to 0. We are waiting for an appraisal from Delta Township for Grand Woods Park. Although we currently cannot enter into a purchasing agreement, Peppermint Creek Theatre is interested in Miller Road. Permission to sell will come from the voters in November, but that still does not complete the sale. There would need to be public hearings and Council would need to vote on the sales agreement. UPDATES Crego Park Opening Brett Kaschinske stated it was a very good day. There were children from Foster Kids Camp and Fenner Camp. Rivertown Kayak provided kayaks, canoes and a paddle board for kids to try. Project FISH provided bait and poles for everyone; Lansing Police GREAT program provided bikes and took kids on the River Trail. The ribbon cutting took place on the ADA accessible canoe dock. ENG provided a cookout lunch. City TV filmed the event and had aerial pictures of the lake. Volunteer Tool Trailer Brett Kaschinske stated there is a meeting scheduled with the Capital Region Community Foundation to take a look at the trailer. The trailer will be pulled out to one of the sites where we had Michigan State Police do a volunteer project at Burchard Park. Troy Stowell/Mark Simon Troy Stowell was the Lifetime Sports Coordinator and he has left the City and accepted the position of Quality of Life Director for the City of Eaton Rapids. Mark Simon is the Lifetime Sports Supervisor and he is off on FMLA until October 7, 2014. Riverwalk—Michigan Avenue Brett Kaschinske reviewed photos of the River Trail across from the Lansing Center and the steps that lead to Impression 5. They have reviewed the corrosion damage of the supports and wood steps on the south side of the river and the steps have been closed off and will be removed. The River Trail is open at this time, but it may need to be closed at a later date. Access may still be obtained by going along Museum Drive to City Market and back onto the River Trail. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—SEPTEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 4 REO Town Art Attack Paul Holland thanked the Parks Department for working with the project and Joy at REACH Studio. Board Member Remarks Olivia Martin stated she wanted to talk about the Recreation half of the department that does not get discussed often. Martin stated she has had some experience with it recently and was blown away. She and her husband have a Foster child that is of tween age. They looked everywhere and found Lansing Parks had the widest variety of things they could offer her to do. The programs were convenient, accommodating, the staff enjoyed their jobs and it was a safe place. Meeting adjourned Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved December 10, 2014 PARK BOARD MEETING Foster Community Center October 8, 2014 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Adam Hussain, Rita O'Brien, Veronica Gracia-Wing MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Holland OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary; Brian Baer; Debbie Mikula, Arts Council of Greater Lansing; Amy Valleau, Paul Johns, Moores Park Neighborhood Association; Dwight Washington. CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. )> c� ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA 1 Brett Kaschinske added under new business artificial flowers in the cemetery. c-n I C-) r F;i STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS None ' •- r� s- BOARD MEETING MINUTES September 10, 2014 Park Board minutes were tabled to November due to lack of quorum. NEW BUSINESS Art Policy Debbie Mikula from the Arts Council of Greater Lansing stated the purpose of this policy is to allow neighborhood associations to apply for the LEAP public art grant. The City of Lansing did not have a policy statement for the creation of public and LEAP recommended creating a policy since it is mandatory to have one in order to apply for their grant. The Arts Council had been working with city staff to create an arts commission and Councilmember Jessica Yorko started to create a policy statement. The City and Arts Council came together about 4 months ago, when this was adopted. This policy was not to use an arts commission or people who have a commitment to art but to use what has already been created in the city, which is what the Parks Commission and Public Service Commission have. Depending on where someone wants to put a piece of public art will determine who will talk through the policy. The Arts Council had many individuals involved during this process who want to become involved in creating more interest in putting more public art in the City. This policy puts a process in place and the Arts Council would like to help the Park Board move some of this policy forward. Brett Kaschinske stated in reading through the resolution it is recommended the Park Board establish criteria for scoring and criteria to be included in any RFP (request for proposal) and inquired if this meant the Board would send out RFP. Debbie Mikula stated the Board does not have to, but they had to establish a couple areas of the policy and this was taken from either Delta Township or Delhi Township. They took a policy from another community which fit the City of Lansing. Mikula is offering the expertise of the Arts Council on how to do the scoring and put review panels in place to be part of this process. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 8. 2014 PAGE 2 Brett Kaschinske stated with the Board policy there is a lot of criteria listed but not necessarily point totals. The other question is in the past we have had donated art and what do we do with it, how much needs to be paid to transport it, install it, secure it and maintain it. Debbie Mikula stated that would be part of Parks Board responsibility to determine if it is worth it, is there a budget for it, etc. The Arts Council can assist the board with decisions. Rick Kibbey stated we may see a couple of these a year. This is already an issue and this is an opportunity to put a process in place. Kibbey suggested if there is a board member really interested he would like a committee of two board members to meet and clarify details of this policy. Rita O'Brien and Brett Kaschinske will meet with the Arts Council. This policy allows the City to apply for a $10,000 LEAP grant each year for public art. Adam Hussain asked for clarification on the objectives of the committee. Rick Kibbey stated the committee is to come back to the board with an analysis of what will be required. Brett Kaschinske stated we need to be sure the Parks policy refers to the resolution passed by Council. Willard Walker Memorial Brett Kaschinske stated the Board wanted a copy of the criteria for naming parks which was included in the packet. The Board has all the information provided to review and prepare to discuss and vote when there is a quorum. Within the guidelines established it states a destination park cannot be named after someone who is still living. This is one issue that would need to be discussed and also is St.Joe Park considered a destination park. Comcast Brett Kaschinske answered the questions from the September board meeting; installation will be below ground and will be buried utilizing directional drilling methods, no roads will be disturbed and any vegetation that is disturbed will be restored. Storm sewer lines will be crossed at several locations at a shallow depth, water and sanitary lines exist south of the road and this is north of the road. It is only after Comcast crosses the road will the above lines need to be avoided. Included in the utility easement and with this preclude additional use of the easement. There are various easements that we have for storm sewer any future improvements could co-exist with this easement. The final question was does the new line inhibit additional uses; it will in a limited way but not no more than existing utilities that inhibit the site; the more utility lines, the more restrictions that will be put in place. Comcast will be coming into the park property at Grand River Park, running along the entrance drive, cutting underneath the entrance drive through the park and down to the Michigan Princess. Rick Kibbey verified this is to service the Michigan Princess; Kaschinske stated yes. Kibbey inquired what the city is being paid. Kaschinske stated all costs are being covered by Comcast. Park Millage Timeline Brett Kaschinske wanted to discuss this and establish a group for the August 2015 millage renewal. He would like the board to put together a committee,there is a treasurer already in place and to start preparing a timeline. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 8, 2014 PAGE 3 Brett Kaschinske stated this is a renewal and it generates approximately$1.8 million dollars. Rick Kibbey stated this is a mid-level election that is not as intense as a council race, but it is not as easy as a CATA millage. This usually involves putting together what the millage is, provide the language and that it is not a new tax, but a renewal. Provide information what was obtained with the last millage funds. If the Park Board does not step up and carry the load the renewal could be in jeopardy quickly. Adam Hussain inquired what the board needs to do. Rick Kibbey stated attend neighborhood meetings, distribute literature and explain the millage, put out yard signs, obtain endorsements and send out letters which usually includes the endorsements. Brett Kaschinske stated it is good to utilize resources; analyze data, where the votes are, etc. Rita O'Brien inquired if there was a deadline set up to send to board members. Kaschinske confirmed there is. Rick Kibbey stated it would not be difficult and he knows of someone who would help. He will reach out to obtain a timeline. Artificial Flowers in Cemetery Brett Kaschinske stated we have a rule right now that we only allow artificial flowers in the cemeteries from November through April, the time when you are not able to grow real flowers. This policy is similar to other cemeteries; some have rules if artificial flowers are not in the way of maintenance they can be there. We have simply said no artificial flowers May through October. We had a complaint about this rule from an individual who says this needs to be changed. Kaschinske stated one of the issues he has is beauty is in the eye of beholder and what some individuals do with gravesites in terms of balloons, flowers, alcohol bottles is different then what others may think is appropriate. It would be difficult to allow some artificial flowers and not others. Veronica Gracia-Wing inquired if this has occurred before or is this first and only time we have heard of this. Kaschinske stated we always hear it when we do the sweep and pick up all the flowers in the spring, but it is usually minimal the number of contacts we hear from. When you consider we have over 50,000 people buried and we receive one or two complaints. Rick Kibbey inquired if it is the same person. Kaschinske stated no. Adam Hussain stated he would not consider changing a policy for one or two people a year. Veronica Gracia-Wing agreed. OLD BUSINESS Moores Park Pool Brett Kaschinske stated a list was circulated some time ago on repairs needed at Moores Park pool. From the list included in the packet the filters were replaced. There were issues this year with the concrete deck, but those repairs have been made and they were minor costs. Plumbing: Sand Filters $125,000 (repaired) Supply and Return Pipe Replacement $185,000 LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 8, 2014 PAGE 4 Re-route Water Discharge $ 85,000 Mechanical: Exhaust Fans $ 14,000 Concrete Railing—Pool Perimeter $ 55,000 ADA Accessible Ramp/Railings $ 47,000 When these figures were put together the total to make the facility in compliance with current codes and requirements was$768,700. Rick Kibbey inquired about the galvanized steel pipe and pvc cannot be used. Kaschinske stated the pipe is curved around the pool and straight pipe could not be used due to the historic designation. Rick Kibbery clarified straight pipe could be used but the pool would lose the historical designation. Kaschinske stated that is correct. Rita O'Brien inquired what the benefit of having a historic designation is. Kaschinske stated the pool was established by Wesley Bintz, who was a City of Lansing employee, and established Bintz Pools. There is a plaque on the outside of the pool that it is a historic designation, but it is not a Michigan Historical site. Adam Hussain says this may matter to some. Are there financial benefits for it being a historic designation? Kaschinske stated no. Brett Kaschinske reviewed the rest of the repairs and the costs involved. Paul Johns stated in 2010 when the park millage was voted on, Murdock Jemerson was Director and there was a line item from CIP money for repairs to the pool. The money was moved; however the neighborhood does not know where the money went. The neighborhood wants to make sure the pool is paid for with tax money. The neighborhood does not want the pool closed and they do not want to pay an entrance fee. Crego Park was dormant, but now it has been opened and will need money put into it which does not make sense since there are other things in the city that exist and need repair. Brett Kaschinske stated anytime the department goes before Council with a list of where millage money is going to be spent and the money is earmarked for a project if the money needs to be moved it has to go before council for approval. Paul Johns stated the neighborhood wants to do what is needed to finance the pool. There collectively needs to be a step taken to keep this pool open and the neighborhood does not want to hear anything more about the pool closing. Brett Kaschinske stated one of things we need to address is what is the target market, which we know are the kids. When we are talking about what would excite kids and keep them coming back; would the youth value a historic pool and would we be better off looking at another water feature. If we close the pool, do we look at a splash pad? This will need to be discussed. Amy Valleau, Vice President of Moores Park Neighborhood Association, and what can the neighborhood do to be partners to help this happen. Kids do recognize the historic value, they think it is a cool building and they may have had grandparents swim there. As a group the neighborhood is willing to work with the city. There has to be grant funds available. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 8 2014 PAGE 5 Rick Kibbey stated he has confidence in Marty Riel, and there have been projects in the past with donated labor. He would like to see a plan and an assessment of how this could be done. This project could be done similar to the Gier gym which was spread out over three years. Brett Kaschinske stated he could get an updated list from Marty and create a PowerPoint presentation to send around for a better understanding. Veronica Gracia-Wing wants to hear from Moores Park Neighborhood a strategic plan, list of individuals with their experience and expertise, where are they coming from, and what they have done successfully before. With this sense of urgency it might be good to take another look at this plan if it has already been done. Adam Hussain would like to hear this, but also is there a commitment from administration. He voiced his frustration before when the park board attended the neighborhood meeting and had grand ideas and the next month discussion was to close the pool. If we are going to go forth with the neighborhood he wants to know there is a commitment from the administration. Brett Kaschinske stated if the city is going to spend this much money,the pool would have some new things but it still would be a 90 year old pool. Would the money be better spent in other areas? Adam Hussain stated we are dangerously close to closing the pool and it is time for the tough questions. What is the marketing difference between Moores and Hunter Pools. Brett Kaschinske stated they pools are open the same hours, the pools are marketed together. We took the pool inflatable obstacle course to Moores on Wednesdays to put a fun factor at the pool, but attendance did not increase. The weather is always a factor. Rick Kibbey stated the board is interested in seeing a plan from the neighborhood for advocacy and funding. This has been talked about for a long time and it may be close to a decision. There have been minor steps taken to keep the pool open, but we have not seen measures to make this work. Paul Jones would like a time frame the neighborhood has to work with. Rick Kibbey replied the neighborhood has to do the work and they will decide on the time needed. Brett Kaschinske stated as of today the pool functional, however it may not be tomorrow. We never know when we turn the system back on what will happen. The budget is coming up soon, at this time it is not a budget cut. Paul Johns inquired who would be working with the neighborhood organization. Kaschinske stated it would be him, however he cannot attend meetings the second Wednesday of the month due to the Park Board. He could send representation. Brett Kaschinske stated he wants to see this stay on the Park Board agenda each month and Moores neighborhood should have a representative at each Park Board meeting. Veronica Gracia-Wing wants to see documentation of the importance of the pool or a splash pad is to the neighborhood and kids. Rita O'Brien would like to see all options the neighborhood is open to. Brett Kaschinske stated we start looking at the budget first thing in the New Year; it is submitted in March and approved in May by Council. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—OCTOBER 8, 2014 PAGE 6 Amy Valleau will contact Brett Kaschinske to obtain the materials and information he has. UPDATES Snap-Ed— Received a $63,000 grant; WIC marketing Personnel Update— Interviewed part-time programmer and part-time clerk positions Riverfront Park—There was damage from Common Ground; we have repaired grass which is not growing well due to the weather so areas have been fenced off and we are working with future rentals to advise what cannot be used. Risdale Park—The slide was burned leaving a large hole that a small child could slip through; looking at replacement or parts or new features. Meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved December 10, 2014 PARK BOARD MEETING Foster Community Center November 12, 2014 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Rita O'Brien, Veronica Gracia-Wing, Gib King MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Holland, Adam Hussain OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary;Jennifer Olson, John Krohn, Mark Ledebuhr, Fenner Nature Center; Natalie Molnar, Ellen Gallavan, Moores Park Neighborhood Association;Jeff Potter, Benn Rollenhagen, Cyclecross Social Bike-Groyp; Dwight Washington CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA E ! Brett Kaschinske added Personnel to updates. Mark Ledebuhr asked to add a Fenner Stewardship updrte. -- C) T'STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS ry Mark Ledebuhr provided an update on stewardship at Fenner. In late August they had a land planning meeting to discuss what people wanted to do and see with Fenner in the next five years. Trails are a high priority with expansions and connections to the River Trail. Fenner is doing a 20 acre prairie restoration project; 10 acres were planted this year. Trails have been trimmed to 7 feet and have been re-established back to their original width. A year ago in September they established stewardship team leaders; this group has 12 leaders who are volunteers. They have received safety training and been certified to use chainsaws, herbicides and other training. They will continue to be trained with first aid and other trainings so they have semi-pro leaders to work with volunteers. Fenner has a lot of deer and they are doing their best to ensure their habitats can support the wildlife.They would like to have support from the DNR for game management. Brett Kaschinske stated in talking with Meridian Township their deer control program is very labor intensive and it has not reduced the population, actually deer/car accidents have increased. Mark Ledebuhr stated their reasons are for safety and ecological reasons to control the deer population. Gib King inquired if it would help for citizens to send letters to the City or to the DNR. Brett Kaschinske stated he spoke with the Ingham County Parks Director since this is a county wide issue. Meridian Township explored the idea of having their police take down the deer; LPD Chief is not interested in this method. Mark Ledebuhr stated the Maple Shed will be screened in and ready for rentals. They have also created a plan for another pavilion. Dwight Washington stated he read there is a Blue Ways committee in the tri-county area and he would like to know more. Also would like an update on the Red Cedar project and the Park Board's initiative in the plan. Brett Kaschinske stated the Blue Ways committee has not been formed but we are looking to form that with Parks and Recreation Director's along the Red Cedar and Grand Rivers. This would include Delta Township, Portland, Lansing, Williamston and the townships along the rivers. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 12, 2014 PAGE 2 BOARD MEETING MINUTES September 10, 2014 and October 8, 2014 Park Board minutes were tabled to December due to lack of quorum. NEW BUSINESS Ranney Park Ben Rollenhagen stated he is an instructor at Central Michigan University. He has promoted two of the largest road cycling events in the State, one in Frankenmuth and one in Mt. Pleasant. Jeff Potter stated he is involved in a wide range of outdoor activities in the area. Mainly he organizes and hosts a social bike riding around Lansing during the summer. He is involved with the local sport biking and cycle cross racing in parks around the state. Lansing hosted a race in the past and he is interested in doing one in Lansing again. Brett Kaschinske asked Ben and Jeff to go through their proposal for Ranney Park. Rollenhagen stated Waverly was used in the past for cycle cross. Cycle cross is a type of bike designed to go off road; it is designed similar to a road bike with thin tires, but with knobs and traction and is very light. Cycle cross is a cross between running and riding, so courses are usually 1 to 2 mile with laps between 5 and 10 minutes. Races are designed for riders to get on and off the bike throughout the race with obstacles installed to provide different challenges along the course. Popularity is growing in Michigan with several races being held each year throughout the state. Rollenhagen stated they are looking for a park to use since Waverly is no longer available. They are inquiring if Ranney Park could be used and would a proposal need to be presented and what is the process to formalize their request. At the current time he has been riding around Ranney. Ranney has not used it in any formal capacity, there are no sanctioned events planned and nothing has been organized to require waivers. They would like to establish a course at Ranney Park for formal events, which are sanctioned events by a national body, USA Cycling. Rollenhagen does not believe there is time to promote a race for this upcoming year. He would like to know to what is the process, what is the formal process for future use and what can they do and not do in the meantime informally throughout the rest of the season. The season goes into February. Rollenhagen stated nothing permanent would be installed. Paint would be used; also stakes with caution tape could be used. Flags could be removed. If mowing were under their control, it would be nice to just mow in a course. Regulation requires the track be 10 feet or 3 meters wide. Kaschinske inquired what type of wear and tear would be expected on the grass. Rollenhagen stated it depends on the use and the weather. Spring usually has minimal wear; this time of year there would be more mud. Kaschinske stated according to the map presented on the south side of the parking lot would create concerns for wear and tear to the individuals who go to the ballfield. The northern part would not be as much of a concern. Kaschinske inquired about the obstacles mentioned and what would they be. Rollenhagen stated for practice they would not install any and there would not be any permanent obstacles. They would use natural obstacles in the park and maybe downed tree logs. Kaschinske inquired about signage at the beginning to outline the course and would the track directional signs be with paint; the flags would create issues with mowing. Rollenhagen stated there is no sign at the beginning. Once the course is established it is designed to be followed. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 12, 2014 PAGE 3 Kaschinske confirmed everything being set up could be removed daily, nightly. Rollenhagen stated it could be if it was required. When more people ride the course,the less creativity is needed. The open area space is the most challenging to mark, however paint would solve the issue. Kaschinske stated the paint is acceptable. We had issues at one time with tires and wire being left. Gib King inquired what the plans are for the park. He noticed last year it was being hayed. Kaschinske stated there is a natural area going to the north and there is a farmer who cuts it. The hill and south is mowed weekly. Gib King inquired if they were looking for permission for one event per year, two per year or set up a course for people to ride daily. Rollenhagen stated there is no event planned'at this time. They are looking for a place to train. Ranney offers natural terrain and parking for events. Rick Kibbey stated there is a group to the south at the skate park who ride bikes and state they do not have a place to ride. Rollenhagen stated there will be short term wearing on the course, but it is rare to have so much use that it leaves any long term wear on the course. The season would be done in February. Rita O'Brien clarified their statement which states one way to mark the course is with paint, but they would like to mow the course into the park. If the city is mowing the course, would this interfere with their mowing of the course. Rollenhagen stated that is communication he would like to have. Rollenhagen stated he heard some people who at Waverly who had access to their own ability to change the course. As a course designer it is best to make last minute changes. In a perfect world it would be them, but the second best thing would be to talk with the mower to drive a different way each week to change the course. Gib King recommended approaching this to use the park and not interfere with anything the Parks Department is doing. If a course is put in and more people ride it a course will be beat in; if that does not hurt what the park plan is, great. Kaschinske stated liability would need to be worked out if Rollenhagen was to use mowers. If it is not that we would need to go to the mowing contractor to see if it would require additional time or effort for the contractor to mow differently and if there would be costs involved. If there are additional costs involved, those costs would need to be passed along. Rick Kibbey stated the way to proceed is to talk about this further and for Rollenhagen and Potter to come back to the Board with a presentation and proposal. Rollenhagen inquired about other parks and would the process be the same. Kaschinske stated yes. Willard Walker Memorial Kaschinske stated this was up for vote, but due to a lack of quorum it will be tabled until next month unless there are more questions. Comcast Easement Kaschinske stated this was up for vote, but due to a lack of quorum it will be tabled until next month. The one question the Board had was the amount, which has not been decided yet but we are looking at about$2,000. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 12, 2014 PAGE 4 Kibbey inquired how this compares with easements. Kaschinske stated it is comparable for similar easements. Westside Stump Removal Tabled until December meeting OLD BUSINESS Moores Park Pool Natalie Molnar introduced herself and stated she is the President of the Moores Park Neighborhood Organization. She would like to stress the importance of the pool to the neighborhood. The Park Board meets the same time and evening as the Moores Park meeting so she will not always be able to attend, but she will have someone attend more regularly. Molnar stated she knows there are issues with the pool and moving forward the organization will do whatever they can to work with the Board, Parks Department and the City. It is not just the neighborhood that uses the facilities at the park. With the River Trail there are always people fishing at the dam, cyclists parking to get on the River Trail and using the pool. We want to be realistic about the needs of the park and pool and what will serve the community best. They want to see the pool continue to operate. The neighborhood organization is looking into grants and fund raising opportunities. She would like to ask for help in doing an assessment of the park and how it is used as a whole and how people are currently using the park. She is not sure if there is a master plan for the park. There are erosion issues and trash issues at the park. The neighborhood would like to ask for assistance with creating a master plan to address the issues of the park. The canoe and kayak business from the downtown area are using Moores and it would be nice if there were benefits to them doing business at Moores. There are safety issues regarding the River Trail and she would like to see improvements to address the safety concerns along the trail to REO Town. Molnar said the neighborhood will do what they can to promote the pool and looking at grants and she asks the city to help in the ways she mentioned and to keep the neighborhood informed. Rick Kibbey stated first an assessment needs to be done. The department's Landscape Architect Planner can be assigned to work with the neighborhood to work on an assessment and bring a presentation back to the Board to address the plethora of issues that exist in the park. We have had good luck with planning as an organizing process and this is how to being the process. Kaschinske stated we talked about an updated assessment and PowerPoint presentation of the problems that exist at the pool and the costs. Kaschinske stated he is still working with the building maintenance department on getting the information. Spoke with Corey Anderson from Vortec about a splash pad, location and the issues involved with splash pads. There are major issues to address such as where are the nearest electricity and water sources. One thing discussed is about not having water circulate, but going directly into the drain system. Kaschinske also mentioned about going online and looking at Bintz pools and other communities that have dealt with some of these same issues. Kaschinske asked for the safety issues that were mentioned earlier in the meeting regarding the River Trail. Molnar said there was an attack on the River Trail last year about this time of year. It occurred on the park side of the bridge, not GM's side. Heading to REO Town there is a large fence on the side of GM and BWL and the river on the side so if LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—NOVEMBER 12, 2014 PAGE 5 someone is following you there is nowhere to-go. Once you cross over the bridge, before you reach St. Vincent's in REO Town, it would be nice to have lighting and an emergency signal. Ellen Gallavan, Secretary Moores Park Neighborhood Organization, stated there is a small parking lot by the pavilion that floods every year. Park Millage Rick Kibbey stated one of the major elements of our budget and a very major element of our flexibility to do new programming is the Board's function on the millage. It has to be renewed every 5 years and we need to get specific when it is coming up and get ready for it. Historically the burden for this has been the Park Board and user groups. This town is full of people who run elections and we have good advice on elections.The election is August 2015, which is 9 months away so there are a lot of neighborhood groups to speak to and records to pull together. UPDATES MRPA Design Kaschinske provided the presentation binder and stated Crego has been nominated for the MRPA Design award. Miller Road—Grand Woods Park— Red Cedar—Waverly Kaschinske stated Miller Road passed by 71%to sell; Grand Woods passed by 55%to sell. Kaschinske stated he is working with Bob Johnson, Planning and Neighborhood Development, on both of these as far as the next steps. Grand Woods deadline is February 2015 for an appraisal from Delta Township on the park. Once the appraisal is done we can discuss sales price. Kaschinske reviewed the announcement on Red Cedar and the 20 acres of land in the floodway. This will need to be addressed. Waverly - has an offer for almost$6 million dollars County Millage This millage passed and discussion will continue on responsibilities and now the money will be handled. Personnel Kaschinske stated we have hired a new part-time programmer. We are looking for a part-time aquatic programmers and full time sports coordinator; waiting for decision on 2 part-time clerks. Meeting adjourned at 9 p.m. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved December 10, 2014 PARK BOARD MEETING Foster Community Center December 10,2014 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Paul Holland,Adam Hussain, Rita O'Brien,Veronica Gracia-Wing MEMBERS ABSENT: Gib King(excused) OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary; Lucas Anthony, Rache Kardahji, Mike Ware,Tecumseh River Neighborhood Organization;Jessica Denton, Louie Rodriguez, Floor Hockey coaches. CALLED TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA z:> _ Cl1 Kaschinske added new programmer at Letts and Community Activity Guide under updates, letter frorn_Tec�osefrAiver Neighborhood as item one under new business and Floor Hockey as item two under new business. `'"' r') C STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS ;v None N BOARD MEETING MINUTES Paul Holland moved to approve the minutes as submitted for September 10, 2014, October 8, 2014 and November 12, 2014; seconded by Veronica Gracia-Wing. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried NEW BUSINESS Tecumseh River Neighborhood Lucas Anthony, President of Tecumseh River Neighborhood Organization, stated the group formed in January 2014. The organizations boundaries are Tecumseh Road north to Delta River Drive, west to Waverly Road and east to North Grand River which is about 1,000 households. They understand the Parks Department is working on the next 5-year plan and they wanted to share information from their brainstorming meeting about what the neighborhood would like to see in the park and what they can partner with the City on. Mr. Anthony provided a list of priorities. Their top priority would be a connection to the River Trail from Tecumseh Park. They would like more trash receptacles in the park, and picnic tables. A portion of the park is natural area and it is beautiful. There is a trail mowed along the river, and the group would like to see more paths mowed in the natural area in the summer. They want to partner with the City and apply for grants. Rick Kibbey stated this group has put forward a nice proposition on how a neighborhood can take on the planning of its park. Tecumseh is an excellent example of actual naturalization in a planned fashion and it can be improved. There is also a wetland portion of the park. Lucas Anthony stated they have put on special events which have had great turnouts. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 10, 2014 PAGE 2 Brett Kaschinske stated he met with the group and many of the items on their list could be done in the spring. He already has dog waste signs ready for installation. Brett Kaschinske stated part of the Board's goals for the 5-year plan is regarding waterways and trail ways. The current River Trail ends close to this park already. There is potential to work with the BWL, however that would be on the other side but there are options that could be Michigan Trust Fund eligible. Brett Kaschinske stated we were going to remove the baseball backstop, but it is being used for the screen for the movies in the park. Anthony Lucas stated the addition of more group sport activities would be awesome such as soccer nets or horseshoe pits. Mike Ware stated they are trying to get the neighborhood engaged through Facebook. Anthony Lucas said the organization began because of the Adopt-a- River clean-up and instead of going to the river with the other groups on that day they decided to organize a Tecumseh Park clean up, so for two years on the Adopt-a-River clean-up day they work in the park. Next year they are planning a snowball fight day with targets to throw at, another movie in the park and Talk Like a Pirate in the park and other events. Brett Kaschinske stated he has concerns about the blind curve and the vegetation around the pond. Lucas stated last summer neighbors were mowing around the pond, but if it could be mowed it would be great but the neighbors will continue to mow if necessary. Kaschinske would like to meet at the pond to discuss mowing. Anthony Lucas stated he noticed the construction crew is no longer working on removing the tennis court and he assumes it is for the season and they will be back in the spring. Brett Kaschinske stated they have to restore the site, which means they have to grade it with top soil and fill in ruts. If the ground is too soft,there would be more repair maintenance needed. They have until spring to complete the project. Rick Kibbey stated he would like to discuss with Kaschinske to consider this a semi-formal plan. This has been found to be a good format to integrate studies that need to be done. Floor Hockey Brett Kaschinske provided the letter regarding age groups that was sent to the floor hockey coaches/managers who had contacted the department and it was also available at the first floor hockey tournament this past weekend. Jessica Denton, coach, showed one of the trophies they won which had the nameplate on the front removed and replaced with masking tape due to the wrong language regarding ages. She is under the impression the plates are going to be replaced. Kaschinske clarified the plates are being replaced at the cost of the City. Louie Rodriguez inquired about last year's trophies they did not receive due to the ice storm. The championship games were not made up and he had spoken with Troy about receiving the trophies; however the trophies were not presented based on the results of the games up to the cancellation point. Jessica Denton read the letter she wrote about the concerns with the floor hockey program,the changes to age groups and other changes to the program. She does not believe the changes were conveyed in a timely manner and team rosters were denied due to ages. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 10,2014 PAGE 3 Jessica Denton stated she had concerns with the last paragraph of Mr. Kaschinske's letter and players not being able to play up in age groups and finding other agencies to play with. Louie Rodriguez stated there are no other avenues for floor hockey and Lansing Parks and Recreation is no longer allowing teams who are not in the Lansing league to play in the tournaments. Rick Kibbey stated he would like a meeting with floor hockey representatives and any other board members interested in attending to discuss this matter further. Brett Kaschinske stated there are issues with floor hockey tournaments held in Lansing School District venues and the behavior of parents. Another issue is if teams are in the City league they are under the City insurance, however if teams are not in the City league do they carry their own insurance and how it that monitored. Also, playing in our league requires playing under City rules. Adam Hussain stated this information was not included in the meeting packet and it is a lot of information. There needs to be a meeting, have questions and be prepared to answer the questions. A meeting will be scheduled as soon as possible with board members and hockey representatives to further discuss this matter. Willard Walker Memorial Rick Kibbey stated this was on the agenda last month and there were questions. Brett Kaschinske stated the guidelines for naming parks was sent out and the one issue in the guidelines pertaining to this request is about naming parks after a living individual. Veronica Gracia-Wing inquired if we have named any parks in the past after living individuals. Brett Kaschinske stated no, we have placed plaques in parks dedicating a building, facility, etc. to living individuals. Veronica Gracia-Wing inquired what issues there could be if naming a park after a living person. Brett Kaschinske stated some time ago there was a request to name a pavilion after a living person who turned out to have an unfavorable background. Paul Holland asked if the Board is being asked to waive the guideline rule. Brett Kaschinske stated the Board is being asked to approve renaming St.Joe Park after Willard Walker. The original request came through the Council office. Rita O'Brien inquired about the Southside Center being named after Alfreda Schmidt. Kaschinske clarified that is a Lansing School District building and the renaming did not require going through this process. Paul Holland inquired if Council needs to rescind the rule? Holland stated he does not like to go around the rule, if the rule needs to be reconsidered the Board needs to recommend to Council to reconsider the rule. Veronica Gracia-Wing agreed and does not feel it is the Board's job to go around the rule and the Board needs to be advised by Council regarding the rule. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 10,2014 PAGE 4 Rick Kibbey stated the Memorial Review Board was created to put the responsibility elsewhere when the request to re- name Grand Avenue after Caesar Chavez came about. The Memorial Board struggles to remain together;the Park Board has been naming park items for decades and has an internal process. The Park Board has taken the position to name our facilities. Asking Council to provide guidance on this would be a big lift because it is a lot of trouble for very little reward. Paul Holland inquired if this is an ordinance or a policy. Brett Kaschinske stated these are our Park Board guidelines, and rule 3 stated applicants are not required to meet all criteria. Rick Kibbey stated the other issue is the whole question of naming rights and selling naming rights. Paul Holland proposed creating a committee to clarify and create new guidelines. Brett Kaschinske stated there were signatures in support. Adam Hussain stated there are only about 20 signatures and he is not sure if they all reside in the neighborhood of St. Joe Park. Brett Kaschinske stated he does not know if this has come before the Westside Neighborhood. He reviewed the signatures and addresses that would be in the neighborhood. Paul Holland inquired if the Park Board would consider consulting with the neighborhood board. Brett Kaschinske stated under Park Board guidelines it reads "A resolution of a recognized Neighborhood Association, passed by a simple majority of the official membership of the Association." Paul Holland stated he would be willing to take this to the neighborhood meeting to consider it and make a motion. Brett Kaschinske stated this has been on the Park Board agenda for a while and the Park Board has had difficulty getting a quorum to act on this. Adam Hussain stated without the Westside Neighborhood Association weighing in and giving support he is not sure he is supportive of pushing this request up the ladder. Everyone on the Park Board is vested in parks and when we are discussing changing a name of a park he wants to see more neighborhood support. Paul Holland agreed with Hussain. St.Joe is a big park and it is a large active neighborhood group that should have input. Rita O'Brien inquired if the neighborhood agrees how long of a process it would be from that point. Paul Holland stated the Westside Neighborhood is meeting next week and the next meeting will be in January. Brett Kaschinske stated the length of time is unknown. Once Westside acts, it would come back to the Park Board for vote, it would then go to the Memorial Review Board and then to Council. Veronica Gracia-Wing asked if an electronic vote could be done on issues that have already been brought before the Board and discussed. Yes, an electronic vote could be done. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 10,2014 PAGE 5 Veronica Gracia-Wing inquired about the projected cost of the proposed memorial. Who is responsible for the cost of signs and collateral associated with it? Brett Kaschinske clarified this would include maps, websites, any document containing the word St.Joe Park. Paul Holland wants Ms. Key informed about the realistic cost of the sign and name change. Kaschinske stated the sign would be closer to$500. Rick Kibbey would like to see Westside Neighborhood Association vote on this and come back to the Park Board. However, the Park Board could act of placing a plaque at the park to recognize Willard Walker. Veronica Gracia-Wing clarified the proposal was to put up a plaque and stop the memorial process. Rick Kibbey stated yes. Paul Holland and Adam Hussain both stated they would like Westside Neighborhood to have input and would like to see the application request addressed as presented to rename the park and not just put up a plaque. Paul Holland wants to act on the application with input from Westside Neighborhood Association and forward to Council. Veronica Gracia-Wing agreed. Brett Kaschinske clarified the Board wants to move this request to the Westside Neighborhood Association, bring their action back to the Park Board, and create a sub-committee to review and clarify the guidelines. Paul Holland agreed; seconded by Veronica Gracia-Wing. 5 yeas; 0 nays. Motion carried Comcast Easement Brett Kaschinske reviewed the answers to the questions the Board asked in September. Paul Holland moved to approve the easement. Adam Hussain seconded. 5 yeas;0 nays Motion carried RanneV Park Brett Kaschinske referred back to the November meeting minutes and the presentation for a cycle cross course at Ranney Park. The Board asked for a proposal; Kaschinske provided an e-mail with the information the group submitted. Kaschinske stated it was his understanding they were to come back to the Board with a presentation. We could draw up an agreement requiring them to fix any ruts they create in the park, clarifying they would not mow any part of the park, and they could mark out the path with temporary markings only such as approved athletic field paint. He would not approve any crossing over of parking lots, he is agreeable with the loop around the northern part of the park. Veronica Gracia-Wing stated the minutes showed they were to come back to the Park Board with a proposal and presentation and the e-mail did not meet that request. Paul Holland inquired if we have a policy for them to have a security bond for damage. Brett Kaschinske stated we usually have a security deposit. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—DECEMBER 10,2014 PAGE 6 Brett Kaschinske stated he has concerns they did not come back to the Board. Obstacles could only be put up on a daily basis, nothing left in the park. He is comfortable with setting up an agreement,we have worked with this group in the past at Waverly and We have had success with them. Rick Kibbey asked if Kaschinske was comfortable with writing an agreement. Kaschinske stated yes. Rick Kibbey moved to allow Brett to prepare a facilities agreement. Rita O'Brien seconded. 5 yeas; 0 nays Motion carried Westside Stump Removal Paul Holland stated he met with Brett last week about the next plans. Westside Neighborhood Association planted 150 trees and now there are stumps to remove. The Westside Neighborhood Association could organize a group of volunteers, raise funds and the City could provide supplies for after the stumps are removed. Neighborhood Association would talk with homeowners to see who would buy in,the neighborhood would hire a vendor to remove the stumps and the volunteers would do the labor to restore the area. A stump inventory would be done in March and plan to have the project done by summer. Removing the stumps at one time would allow for better pricing then individuals having stumps removed one at a time. Moores Park Brett Kaschinske stated the estimate on the splash pad was$275,000 and reviewed the specifications. UPDATES Ferris Park—Soccer Field Brett Kaschinske introduced Scott Dane from CASL(Capital Area Soccer League). They will be at the February meeting to do a presentation. Kaschinske wanted to bring it to the Board as preliminary information. This would be a smaller turf soccer field with boards around it to contain the ball. There will be lights, either solar or electric. The Downtown Neighborhood Association has been approached regarding the project. LEAP is also involved with the project. City Art Policy Brett Kaschinske stated he and Rita met with the Lansing Art Gallery. Kaschinske spoke with Public Service and the two departments need to work together for guidelines. Veronica Gracia-Wing inquired what is being done in the interim. Kaschinske stated in the interim we have a policy Council has passed which refers it back to Park Board. Meeting adjourned Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved February 11, 2015 PARK BOARD MEETING Foster Community Center January 14,2015 MEMBERS PRESENT: Rick Kibbey, Gib King MEMBERS ABSENT: Paul Holland, Adam Hussain, Rita O'Brien,Veronica Gracia-Wing, OTHERS PRESENT: Brett Kaschinske, Parks and Recreation Director; Kellie Brown, Board Secretary;Joe Wright, Public Service;Joe Stacks, MSU Student CALLED TO ORDER: 7:10 p.m. ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA Kaschinske added Park Board Rule changes to New Business, Parks Millage Fact Sheet to Old Business, Grand Woods and Forestry/Grounds annual report to updates. STATEMENTS OF CITIZENS None BOARD MEETING MINUTES Tabled until February meeting due to lack of quorum. NEW BUSINESS Willard Walker Memorial Brett Kaschinske stated at the December meeting the Park Board requested this request be taken to the West Side Neighborhood Association to receive their input on the name change of St.Joe Park. Veronica Gracia-Wing, Park Board Member and Westside Neighborhood Association member, reported by e-mail the following: "After reviewing the proposed name change and a majority vote,the WNA board offers feedback to the Parks board to the extent that it defers to the discretion and opinion of the Parks board on the renaming of St.Joseph Park to Willard Walker Park.The board also wishes to.express its appreciation to the Parks board for including the neighborhood in the renaming conversation." Action on this agenda item will be tabled until February meeting due to lack of quorum. Trails Stakeholders Meeting Brett Kaschinske stated Ingham County has called this meeting due to the county wide millage passing for the River Trail. Kaschinske would like to see Park Board members at the meeting on Monday,January 26 at 6 p.m. at Human Services Building#3, 5303 S. Cedar Street. Meridian Township, East Lansing, Lansing Township and Lansing were the majority of passing votes. Kaschinske stated Lansing has submitted $1.2 million dollars' worth of needs to the County Commissioners for the River Trail. Rick Kibbey confirmed it is important for Park Board members to attend this first meeting. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 14, 2015 PAGE 2 Brett Kaschinske stated there is a master plan in place for Ingham County trails. Park Board Rules Brett Kaschinske reviewed the rule changes which pertain to the number of board members and what constitutes a quorum. Rick Kibbey stated he has concerns about the wording"no less than five members" and "One (1) member more than one-half of the current appointed Board Members shall constitute a quorum". He would like to see wording about majority of attendance. 5-Year Master Plan Brett Kaschinske introduced Joe Wright who provided a draft copy of the 2015-2020 Master Plan. Wright stated he and Kaschinske will be meeting with the Mayor tomorrow to discuss the plan. Kaschinske stated there is currently a survey on the Parks web site; which has also been posted to Facebook, sent to neighborhood organizations and distributed through the department's e-newsletter. Joe Wright stated planning for the plan in April by meeting with the Park Board and staff.Throughout the summer, public meetings were held to receive input, as well as an on-line survey which is posted until February 2, 2015; in addition follow-up surveys are done after major events and classes which will also be included. The goals were set by the Park Board and modified by data received from the surveys. Major changes should not need to be made at this time to the plan. Brett Kaschinske stated we originally had five (5)goals and made one addition and objectives were updated from the various meetings. Joe Wright reviewed the time line of the plan. January 15 he and Brett will be meeting with the Mayor; survey deadline is February 2; public comments on the draft plan will be taken through February 16. Wright stated he would like to focus on the capital improvement project(CIP) list to accomplish more than the last plan. Brett Kaschinske spoke with the City Clerk and they have several plans on their website for review and we will also be placing the master plan draft on the website directing individuals to Council meetings to make comments. Joe Wright stated he needs Park Board approval and Council resolution before the end of February. The plan has to be into the DNR by March 1, 2015 if the City wants to apply for grant money by April 1, 2015. If the City does not want to apply for grant money this year,the plan has to be to the DNR by April 1, 2015. Rick Kibbey discussed the CIP list and he does not believe the basketball complex has a developed consensus on the project. It is a controversial project and there would be opposition from the Board. Brett Kaschinske stated it is better to put it in the plan and maybe not get votes than to not put it in the plan and not have it listed out for the DNR. The February meeting will be used to discuss and approve the plan. February agenda items were discussed and what will need to be moved to March to accommodate discussion on the master plan. Park Millage Fact Sheet Kaschinske provided a fact sheet on the 2015 Park Millage. LANSING PARK BOARD MINUTES—JANUARY 14, 2015 PAGE 3 UPDATES Murdock Jemerson—MRPA Fellowship Award Murdock is the former Director and this is the highest award presented by the MRPA. He will be presented with the award at the annual conference in Lansing on February 12. MRPA Conference Kaschinske stated the annual conference will be held in Lansing, February 10 through February 13. Floor Hockey Kaschinske stated the league is going well. Rick Kibbey inquired about the changes and what has been done. Kaschinske stated after the last Park Board meeting a special meeting was held with floor hockey coaches. Kaschinske asked Board members for comments and opinions and did not receive any feedback. Gib King stated he thought there was going to be a proposal brought back to the Board to vote on. Kaschinske stated the floor hockey coaches understand the changes with the age divisions, coaches have worked together to move kids to other teams to play in appropriate age divisions and nothing further will be done at this time. Rotary Grant Friends of Lansing River Trail applied for the 1001h anniversary grant from the Rotary Club to replicate the Maguire Park arch throughout the River Trail with 16 similar arches. They made it to the final eight (8), but not to the final two (2). They may approach the Granger Company regarding this project. Grand Woods Kaschinske stated the appraisal has been done and came back at$765,000. The contract with Delta Township was extended from 2014 to 2016 with the current terms. The property is for sale and the City is in negotiations with Delta Township. Forestry/Grounds Annual Report Kaschinske provide a copy of the Forestry/Grounds annual report to Rick Kibbey for review. INFORMATION The 2015 meeting schedule was provided to Board members. Respectfully Submitted: Kellie Brown, Park Board Secretary Approved February 11, 2015