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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-05-21 PRC MINCity of Stillwater Parks and Recreation Board May 21, 2007 Present: Linda Amrein, chair David Brandt and Adam Nyberg Staff present: Planner Mike Pogge Absent: Paul Donna, Rob McGarry, Cathy Sewilo and Sandy Snellman Chair Amrein called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Approval of minutes: Ms. Amrein noted a typo on page 2 in the discussion of the Trinity Lutheran Church event — "sell" rather than "see" — and also pointed out approval for the St. Croix Classics Theater event should have been for June 29 and/or July 6, rather than June 29 or July 6. Action Items St. Croix Valley Recreation Center and Lily Lake Arena rates — Doug Brady, Rec Center manager, was present to review the recommended rates for 2007-08. Mr. Brady noted a change in the proposed rate for the non -prime time. He stated the recommendation is for a fee of $140 per hour for both the Rec Center and Lily Lake ice during non -prime hours, and a fee of $150 per hour for use of the full field house and $90 per hour for use of one- half of the field house facility during non -prime hours. The recommended prime time rates are as listed in the packet: $155 per hour for ice time at the Rec Center, $150 per hour at Lily Lake, $210 for use of the full field house and $120 per hour for one-half the field house. The recommendation represents a $5 per hour increase for the Rec Center ice sheets and field house. Mr. Brady stated he had done a survey of 34 ice rinks in the metro area and found that the average fee is $165 per hour, indicating that the Stillwater facilities will remain competitive in rates, even with a $5 an hour increase. He stated he would recommend a $5 increase this year and another $5 increase the following year. Ms. Amrein pointed out that a straight $5 an hour increase isn't the same percent increase for the various uses/facilities. It was noted that basing increases on percentage would result in some odd numbers that would be difficult to work with. Mr. Nyberg and Mr. Brandt both indicated they were comfortable with the proposed straight $5 an hour increase. It was noted the proposal does not include an increase in the open skate and open field rates or the walking fees. There was a brief discussion about the allocation of ice time. Mr. Nyberg said he would not want the fee increase to decrease usage. It was noted that Stillwater will still be lower than nearby facilities such as Woodbury ($170/hour) and South St. Paul ($170/hour). Members present were in consensus that the recommended fee increases were acceptable. There was a question as to whether not taking action until the June meeting might pose a problem. Mr. Brady stated he had already informed customers to expect the fee increase. Park & Recreation Board Minutes May 21, 2007 Page 2 of 3 Teddy Bear Park rental agreement — Nick Chaves, Public Works Department supervisor, was present to review proposed changes to the policy for use and rental of the barn at Teddy Bear Park. Mr. Chaves explained that the recommendation is to require that reservations be made a minimum of 7 days in advance for events between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 days in advance for events on Saturday and Sunday and events after 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Currently, the policy requires reservations to be made 24 hours in advance for weekday events between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. and one week in advance for weekend use and events after 3 p.m. weekdays. Mr. Chaves noted the primary reason for the recommended change is to enable the City to provide staffing through the use of summer help, who were hired with the understanding of being available for flexible schedules. Using full-time staff requires overtime pay for many events, Mr. Chaves noted. Mr. Pogge stated the intent is to keep the facility accessible and flexible, while at the same time minimize staff costs. It was noted this will be the first full summer for rentals. Those in attendance were in consensus that the proposed policy was acceptable. Ms. Amrein pointed out the recommended change in the reservation requirements will result in a discrepancy in the language of items 9 and 10 in the park policies and wondered whether that language ought to be changed to be consistent with the reservation policy. Mr. Pogge said he would bring revised language back to the June meeting. There was a brief discussion regarding deposit requirements. Mr. Pogge said he would bring the fee schedule to the June meeting as well. Informational items: • Park tour — Mr. Pogge stated staff is recommending that the tour include a parcel of City -owned land at the end of Nightingale Boulevard on the southwest corner of Long Lake. Ms. Amrein suggested including stops at Brown's Creek Park and Washington Square on the tour. It was noted the regular meeting will likely start at 6 p.m., followed by the tour. • Mr. Pogge stated the City had received an offer from a stone mason to redo the flagpole in Lowell Park. He stated the proposal is to dismantle the structure and create new stone pieces. Mr. Pogge said it is believed the pole is the original structure, dating from 1918. Detailed ironwork at the base of the structure will have to be replicated, as well as the original plaque, which was stolen at some point in time. He stated much of the work would be performed at no charge; estimated cost to the City is $5,000-$6,000, which is in the Lowell Park budget. Mr. Nyberg asked if there was any guarantee regarding the quality of work. Mr. Pogge noted the City would have a licensing agreement for the work, and stated that the person who has volunteered to do the masonry work has good credential, which would be verified. Ms. Amrein asked whether historian Don Empson or the Heritage Preservation Commission should be involved to make sure the project is done in an historically correct manner. Mr. Pogge said the City would work with the Historical Society and obtain photos of the original flagpole to guide the project. Members were in consensus the offer was something to pursue. • Mr. Pogge noted that work on Washington Square has started, and the City has received some complaints from neighbors. There was discussion about the parking issue. • It was noted a task force has been formed to look at the issues related to the pedestrian pathway along Eagle Ridge Trail, as well as lighting and traffic calming issues. Park & Recreation Board Minutes May 21, 2007 Page 3 of 3 • Mr. Pogge stated there is funding for improvements/equipment at Sunrise Park. He said the City likely will send out RFPs (request for proposals) including the options of rebuilding and making the structure handicap accessible or installing all new equipment. Depending on the cost, neighborhood meetings would be held to get input on the type of preferred equipment, he said. Mr. Nyberg, seconded by Mr. Brandt, moved to adjourn at 8 p.m. Motion passed unanimously. Respectfully submitted, Sharon Baker Recording Secretary