04-23-01 Parks, Recreation, Cultural Arts & Entertainment

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r Parks,Recreation,Cultural Arts &Entertainment Committee April 23, 2001 Page 2 Mr. St. Clair then responded to the key points of that letter as follows: * Percentage of hours of supervision: would have supervision at all times * Fees: Reviewing proposed fees schedules for residents and non-residents * Age Limits: Have not established limits as of this date, however are reviewing a minimum age between 8-10 years old as well as designating times for younger children to participate and specific locations * Size of the facility: 15,000 square foot facility is proposed based on the more successful facilities averaging between 12,000 and 17,000 square feet * Funding: COIT dollars are proposed however the Park Department would invite private partnerships however no private dollars have been offered as of now * Insurance: Yearly premium amounts are estimated to cost$5,000.00. * Location: O'Brien is proposed in light of its parking lot,access by public transportation, noise control. Council President Pfeifer inquired about an upper age limit, and was advised that no upper limit is anticipated. She also inquired about proposed fee amounts. Mr. St. Clair noted that upscale parks charge between $ 10-$ 12 for admission and rental of equipment. The proposed fees would be comparable to the ice rink rates which are $ 2.00. Dr. Varner encouraged the Park Department to create non-reverting funds to cover the ongoing maintenance of the proposed park. He also urged that $ 1.00 of each admission be dedicated to such funds. In response to a question from Council Member Kirsits, the Committee was advised that no bikes would be permitted at the park. Council Member Ujdak noted that he is conceptually if favor of the park however expressed reservations with regard to the timing being premature, especially in light of pressing needs for capital dollars for streets. He believes that the proposed budget is a"shot in the dark" at best; and that proper supervision of the park would require a significant dollar amount which are not reflecting in the figures being proposed in the budget. He also stressed that need to not neglect other park projects. Council Member Coleman offered to be involved as the liaison for design and operating policy considerations between the Park Department, Park Board and the Council. Following further discussion, the previous motion was voted upon and passed to recommend Bill No. 01-38 favorably to Council. •