04-09-01 Parks & Recreation - Laserfiche WebLink

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Parks and Recreation Committee April 9, 2001 Page 2 supervision by the City. He noted that the South Gateway Association was supportive of the proposed location. Council Member White inquired as to how the other park needs would be prioritized in light of such a large expenditure on one(1) park activity. Mr. St. Clair stated that his department has in place a five (5) year master plan and that all needs and priorities need to be addressed in light of that plan. Council Member Kirsits inquired about the proposed location noting that his sons were excited about the project until they heard where it was being proposed. Council Member Kirsits stressed the need for a proper location and accessibility for the entire community; and then inquired about fees, fencing and parking. Council Member Kirsits suggested considering locating this type of park by the park trail system instead. Mr. St. Clair stated that the park would be east of the parking lot and that the park would be on a fee basis for admission. The entire area would be properly fenced. He noted that his department has not considered locating the park by the park trails and that further research would have to be done on that proposal. Council Member Kirsits noted that many of the baseball parks throughout the city are in "deplorable" condition and that many umpires are refusing to call games. He cited problems at Keller, NW Little League, Leeper Park as being"pathetic". Council Member Kirsits stated that last year he was forced to bring his own personal equipment to the ball parks to get the infields ready for play. Council Member Varner inquired about the neighbors which would be affected along the adjoining streets to the proposed location. Dr. Varner suggested Dean Johnson Park as an alternative location for the city to consider. Council Member King asked Mr. McMinn to address the insurance liability aspects. Council Member Aranowski suggested that more money be budgeted for supervision. Additional questions were raised regarding the proposed hours of operation, safety wear and admission fees. At this point, Council Member Coleman opened the meeting to remarks from the public. The following individuals spoke in favor of the proposed park: Corey Clapper, Joe Sergio, Bob Wilson, Matt Mulligan,Jim Frick,Adam Tsruscki,Jeff Kelly, Phil Maternowski and Colette Bigi. No one spoke in opposition to the proposal. The Committee and Council Members were then invited to ask further questions or make further comments. Council Member King expressed his support of the proposal citing the fact that the Park Department had done its homework. Chairperson Council Member Coleman expressed his support for the proposal and asked the Committee to vote in support of a motion to consider a resolution from the Administration at the