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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-09-23 PRC MIN216 4th Street N, Stillwater, MN 55082 I ] 1 a ter 651-430-8800 1 www.stillwatermn.gov The Birthplace of Minnesota J PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES September 23, 2024 REGULAR MEETING 7:00 P.M. Public Works Director Sanders called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present: Commissioners Haveles, Lehmann, Quie, Councilmember Polehna Absent: Chairman Macswain, Commissioner Larson Staff: Public Works Director Sanders APPROVAL OF MINUTES Possible approval of minutes of August 26, 2024 meeting - postponed OPEN FORUM Peggy Gora, 3495 87th Street, asked why the City Parks and Rec Department gives preferential privileges on Northland pickleball courts to the Stillwater Pickleball Group, when City money was used to build the courts. She believes all City courts should be available to all City residents any time of the day. Currently the majority of City residents are prevented from using these courts Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. -12 p.m. and Monday through Thursday 6- 9 p.m. She asked that the City remove the signs and allow free, open play for all. Paul Gora added there aren't enough pickleball courts in the City because this group has taken over Northland to the exclusion of everyone else, including kids and families who want to play. Public Works Director Sanders said he understands the group has such large numbers that they're continuously rotating so everybody in the group can play. Councilmember Polehna asked why not go to other courts, and Mr. Gora replied the other courts are all packed. The club is not paying for the privilege of reserving the courts. Councilmember Polehna commented they gave the City a $10,000 donation to redo the courts. Commissioner Quie remarked someone needs to organize the rotation because so many people want to play, and Ms. Gora responded that is what happens at a club so that's where they need to go. City courts should be open to families and non -organized play. Commissioner Quie thanked the Goras and said the Commission will revisit this concern when the season is over. NEW BUSINESS Riverfront Renewal Presentation - Shawn Sanders Public Works Director Sanders reviewed a $13.5 million plan to expand and enhance riverfront access, called "Riverfront Renewal." The plan includes transforming Lumberjack Landing and Bridgeview Park through State funding, private donations, grants and City contributions. He showed proposed design plans for each project and the design timelines. $6 million funding from the State Legislature, and $1.1 million in grants and donations, has already been secured. Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting September 23, 2024 In the November election, Stillwater voters will decide whether to accept a half percent sales tax to cover $6.2 million of project costs. The tax would end after ten years or when the $6.2 million is secured, whichever comes first. Commissioner Haveles remarked that educating the public will be important so they see how they can use the river even if they don't own a boat. Accessibility of walkways and other areas, and programming for all users will be important. Commissioner Lehmann commented it would be nice to add a swimming area at Lumberjack Landing. UNFINISHED BUSINESS There was no unfinished business. DISCUSSION ITEMS Mr. Sanders reported that the City Council favored the idea of using the parking lot area across from Teddy Bear Park for a skateboard park. Access will likely come from Nelson and Second Streets. Some trees have been cleared and there is an existing 80 ft diameter concrete pad. Parks Superintendent Rogness will contact professional skateboarder Nicole Hause to get her ideas for the park. There also is the possibility for an organized graffiti wall there. The City has about $140,000 budgeted. Mr. Sanders showed three options for proposed playground designs for Heritage Square Park and Sunrise Park and asked for Commission input. There were no Commission Member updates. Other Business There was no other business. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 7:53 p.m. Dan Macswain, Chair ATT ST: had Rogness, Parks Superintendent Page 2 of 2