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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-05-20 PRC Minutes CITY OF STILLWATER PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING May 20, 2019 Present: Chairwoman Linda Amrein, Commissioners David Brandt, Scott Christensen, Pam Johnson, Sam Nelson, Sandy Snellman, Stephanie Souter, Council Representative Mike Polehna Absent: None Staff: Public Works Superintendent Tim Moore OPEN FORUM Gretta, Connor and Ingrid, 610 Fifth Street North, said they are excited to see Pioneer Park updated. However they would like more challenging things for older kids. They asked how citizens were informed the park was being updated. They suggested a letter be sent to neighbors asking for input on park designs. Chairwoman Amrein said everyone is welcome to attend the Commission meetings, usually the fourth Monday of the month. Councilmember Polehna noted that some of the equipment was aging and had to be replaced to comply with safety standards. He explained that the Parks Commission is advisory to the City and represents all the citizens in relation to the parks. A girl (no name or address given) suggested that the City consider creating a pump track, which is like a dirt bike park but paved, for scooters, skateboards and bikes. APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 22, 2019 MINUTES Chairwoman Amrein referred to Commissioner Christensen’s suggestion at the last meeting that the Commission’s name be changed to the Parks and Trails Commission rather than the Parks and Recreation Commission. Councilmember Polehna replied it would require a change in the bylaws. He is willing to pass along the recommendation to the Council. Motion by Commissioner Christensen, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to recommend that the name of the Commission be changed to the Stillwater Parks and Trails Commission. Motion passed, 7-0. Motion by Commissioner Snellman, seconded by Commissioner Souter, to approve the April 22, 2019 meeting minutes. Motion passed, 7–0. Commissioner Nelson asked if a sign could be erected when a park is being updated indicating that the project is underway and providing a phone number to call if citizens have comments or suggestions. Mr. Moore said a sign is at Pioneer Park and it has the City Hall phone number. Councilmember Polehna said a community group could be formed to review major park plans before they are reviewed by the Commission and Council. Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting May 20, 2019 Page 2 of 3 ACTION ITEMS Pine Point Park Master Plan Update and Citizen Advisory Committee Public Works Superintendent Moore stated Washington County is updating the Pine Point Park Master Plan and seeking members to serve on a Community Advisory Committee. Councilmember Polehna suggested Bill Simpson or Josie Vania. INFORMATION ITEMS Introduction of new Parks and Recreation Commission Member Pam Johnson introduced herself. Lumberjack Days Mr. Moore reviewed the application for Lumberjack Days 2019, July 19-21. The Water Street Inn parking lot will be used for staging and beer garden, Lowell Park will be used for activities, and the Lumberjack show will be set up on the amphitheater stage. Helicopter rides will take place from city property south of St. Croix Boat and Packet. There will be a 5K and 10K race beginning and ending at Pioneer Park. The parade will be held on July 22. The footprint and activities will not change much from last year. Parks Tour June 24, 2019 Mr. Moore stated he is working with St. Croix County to gain access to Kolliner Park for the park tour. Councilmember Polehna said the opening of the lift bridge has been delayed to November. He has been working with groups and officials in both States to plan a lift bridge opening celebration. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place the Friday after Thanksgiving. May 15-16, 2020 will be the opening celebration involving a dinner on the bridge, a street dance on the pedestrian plaza, a pancake breakfast, and a world record of holding hands around the 4.7 mile loop. There are bike rodeos, a kiddie parade, waterfront concerts and other events planned. He has talked to St. Croix County about Stillwater’s interest in opening Kolliner Park beach. There are concerns from neighbors up the hill. A meeting is being set up. At issue is recreational liability. He also is still hoping to have a street dance on September 27, 2019 as originally planned. Mr. Moore said he will continue trying to see if the Commission can access Kolliner Park for the Park Tour June 24. The tour will start at 6 p.m. with social afterward at a location to be determined. Teddy Bear Park Brochure Mr. Moore provided the Teddy Bear Park program brochure. New Training Program established for all Boards and Commissions Mr. Moore informed the Commissioners of training June 6 for members of all Boards and Commissions, presented by City Attorney Land. Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting May 20, 2019 Page 3 of 3 COMMISSION ITEMS/TOPICS Mr. Moore said starting next month the the meetings will be streamed on the internet. The City would like to have everyone sit at the dais. Councilmember Polehna and several Commissioners expressed a preference to sit around the table. Chairwoman Amrein voiced concern about litter on the street. She would like a plan to encourage people not to litter. Several ideas were discussed. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Commissioner Snellman, seconded by Commissioner Brandt, to adjourn. All in favor, 7-0. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.