10-11-04 Parks, Arts, Recreration and Culture

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Parks, Arts,Recreation and Culture WARM Committee The October 11, 2004 meeting of the Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture (PARC) Committee was called to order by its Chairperson, Council Member Sean Coleman at 4:20 p.m. Persons in attendance included Council Members Dieter, Pfeifer, Kelly, Puzzello, Varner,Kuspa, Coleman,White and Kirsits; City Clerk John Voorde, Park Superintendent Phil St. Clair, Andrew Nemeth, Mr. Scheffineyer, Laurie Guy, Rita. Kopola, and Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Council Attorney. Council Member Coleman noted that he called the meeting to receive a presentation on the Park Master Plan and to discuss Summer in the City. He noted that he would like to have a presentation on Summer in the City first, in light of the lateness of the hour and if necessary reschedule the presentation on the Park Master Plan.. Park Superintendent Phil St. Clair provided a two-page handout to the committee entitled "2004 SIC Expenses(8/16/04)" (copy attached). He noted that the anticipated cost for Summer in the City was estimated to be $102,600; while the actual cost was $124,185.95. Revenues were projected to bring in $48,000; but only $41,843.16 was raised. Infrastructure improvements included an additional $15,431.73 and South Bend Police Department costs for overtime were$15,235.09. Mr. St. Clair stated that the festival began approximately thirty (30) years ago as an Ethnic Festival., and that it has had "a great run". His biggest concern is about the one-day format. Almost everyone really enjoys the parade. Council Member Pfeifer noted that many cities have fairs and inquired whether they have problems. Mr. St. Clair thought that the Taste of Chicago may have had a shooting incident. Council Member Kelly stated that he enjoyed going to the Ethnic Festival and tasting the many different foods. He believes that it was successful and perhaps it should be reinstated. Mr. St. Clair stated that there are different health regulations now in effect and that there are not as many volunteers. Council Member Dieter stated that he believes the city needs to look at other programs which it does very successfully such as Art Beat, and softball and golf programs. The Summer in the City event has become a"hassle and a headache" Council Member Puzzello stated that she and her family enjoy the festival and especially the parade. She noted that Ronald McDonald is"out of this world". Dr. Varner stated if this is a hiatus year, the parade should be kept and perhaps include the Pioneer Auto Club and McDaniels motorcycles. Art Beat has gone beyond all expectations for far less security costs. The 4-H Fair is the proper venue for a carnival-like event,and he does not believe that the current Summer in the City is very family-oriented. Parks, Arts,Recreation and Culture(PARC)Committee October 11,2004 Page 1