12-08-14 PARCS - Laserfiche WebLink

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Phil St. Clair said a comprehensive program could cost upwards of $1 million up front for personnel, equipment, and tree replacement. Councilmember Henry Davis maintained that trees can be seen as infrastructure therefore qualifying for use of TIF funds. Councilmember Tim Scott wondered about the availability of grants to supplement a program. Dr. Ferlic summed up the discussion with a question. Who is going to formulate an overall policy and how will it be funded? Phil Sr. Clair said the Park Board would adopt a policy; but it would be dependent on available funding. The second issue before the committee was consideration of resolution 14 -111 sponsored by Councilmember Henry Davis. In short this resolution asks the Council to adopt the Kennedy Park Improvement Plan prioritizing it for inclusion in a potential Park Board. The plan Henry referenced was a list of improvements to address the needs at Kennedy Park as seen by nearby neighborhood groups. These groups have met over the past couple of years to identify needs in the park. Attending the meeting was a representative of the Roseland Rotary Club which has offered to raise funds for a basketball court at the park. At present they were awaiting firm cost estimates and ultimately a "go ahead." Phil St. Clair reminded everyone of the recently adopted 5 -year park master plan. He said it contained some if not all needs for Kennedy Park. The challenge remains how to fund capital costs and also whether Kennedy's needs should take priority over other parks. Councilmember Gavin Ferlic said he could not support a resolution prioritizing Kennedy's need over other needed park improvements. Citizen Joe Shabazz spoke to the dire need to prioritize improvements for Kennedy Park. On a motion by Derek Dieter, seconded by Tim Scott the resolution was referred to full Council unfavorably with only Henry Davis objecting. Dr. Felic adjourned the meeting at 3:30 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Chairperson