2015.04.01 PRC MinutesMinutes: April 2015
[1]
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission
April 1, 2015
Crystal Community Center
Approved 6/3/15
The Parks and Recreation Commission Tree Board meeting was called to order
at 7:01 pm by Vice Chairperson Nancy LaRoche. Commission members in
attendance were: Lori Merriam, Lynn Haney, Lassana Bamba Jr., Erin Kolb,
Steve Hildre and Tom Jungroth. Also present were Elizabeth Dahl, Council
Liaison; Brad Fortin, and Gene Hackett from the city staff. Guests included:
Scott Berggren from the Recreation Department staff and James Burks, City
Forester.
James Burks was introduced as the City Forester. He gave the Commission
background on how the City Forester position has changed because
Robbinsdale revised their program. He gave the annual Crystal Forestry report.
The Commission asked questions regarding Emerald Ash Borer treatment and
city management plans. Mr. Burks said that an update to the city Dutch Elm/Oak
Wilt tree disease ordinance is being considered to include EAB.
Arbor Day plans were reviewed.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:25pm
The Parks and Recreation Commission regular meeting was called to order at
7:30 pm by Chairperson Erin Kolb. Commission members in attendance were:
Lori Merriam, Lynn Haney, Lassana Bamba Jr., Nancy LaRoche, Steve Hildre
and Tom Jungroth. Also present were Elizabeth Dahl, Council Liaison; Brad
Fortin, and Gene Hackett from the city staff. Guest included: Scott Berggren
from the Recreation Department staff
The minutes were approved as sent.
Ms. Kolb reported on the City Council work session. Those attending thought the
meeting went well and thought it was beneficial to discuss Long Range Plans.
The Commission discussed trends including reducing/eliminating certain
features. After hearing that from the Commission, there was Council discussion
at their March 17 meeting regarding the Becker tennis court fencing project and
the need for tennis courts. Becker courts would be kept as they are heavily used.
The project was approved. Mr. Fortin informed the Commission that the tennis
court fencing came in under budget and that the Council will be asked to allow
additional projects at Becker park with the savings.
Minutes: April 2015
[2]
Mr. Berggren gave the Commission an overview of the proposed community
educational garden project at Lions Soo Line Park. The project would consist of
neighborhood adopted raised beds. Mr. Berggren has been in contact with other
community garden groups that may be interested in supporting the project. The
proposal will be discussed at the Lions Soo Line neighborhood meeting in June.
Commissioners asked questions regarding use of the South Brook community
garden that Crystal shares with Brooklyn Park. Crystal sells out all the plots but
not all plots are sold to residents. The Commission asked about some type of
priority registration to make sure Crystal residents get first opportunity when plots
become open. Mr. Berggren will look into changing the registration method to
better accommodate Crystal residents.
The Crystal Frolics buttons were judged.
The Commission reviewed the proposed CCC catering changes. Comments
were favorable. Ms. Hackett and will meet with Mr. Minnick to discuss which date
can be used to make the changes.
The Commission reviewed the Long Range Plan priorities. The Commission is
interested in looking at trends – especially in regards to tennis courts and park
buildings. A new construction item such as a Splash Pad was put on the maybe
list as Commission members wanted to focus on park amenities we already
have. The upcoming park tour will focus on priority items.
Mr. Fortin reviewed ideas for building updates. There was a question regarding
vandalism. Mr. Fortin informed the Commission of the program he had in White
Bear Lake where CSO’s did park patrol and part of their salary came out of the
Parks budget. The Commission would like to discuss that possible project with
Chief Revering this fall.
Ms. Hackett informed the Commission that 3 Rivers Park District is coming to the
April 7 Council meeting to ask for endorsement of their grant application to work
on the Bassett Creek Regional Trail. They hope to work on segments in New
Hope and Crystal. Ms. Kolb asked a question regarding public input on the trail.
Mr. Jungroth reported that the trail has been in the planning for several years and
in fact public input caused the trail to be moved and to utilize more on-street.
3Rivers completes segments as they receive funding.
Staff gave the monthly reports, highlighting major activities.
Ms. Dahl gave to City Council report. The Council is looking for residents to serve
on the Blue Line Committee as well as a City Code committee. The Council is
reviewing all the city Commissions. Commissioners thanked Ms. Dahl for her
updates on facebook and other social media.
Minutes: April 2015
[3]
Ms. Haney informed the group that the Frolics Committee is getting business
sponsorships for prizes for the buttons. The Skate Park event is questionable.
Helpers are needed for the Scavenger Hunt. There will be a Dunk Tank and
Zumba and craft beer this year.
Mr. Jungroth reported on the last Crystal Business Association meeting. The
Mayor gave the State of the City.
Community News:
Michaels is moving to Brooklyn Center.
Light of Crystal member Shawn Smith took the kids to several Crystal
parks and had the kids rate them. Lions Valley Place received the highest score
with North Lions receiving the lowest.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45pm.
Gene Hackett
Recorder