16-04 Approved Commission Minutes
Minutes: April 2016
[1]
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission
April 6, 2016
Crystal Community Center
The Parks and Recreation Commission Tree Board meeting was called to order at
6:38pm by Tree Board Chairperson Erin Kolb. Tree Board members in attendance
were: Lynn Haney, Lori Merriam, Erin Kolb, Meredith Torres-Walsh, Tom Jungroth and
Guy Mueller. Also present were Elizabeth Dahl, Council Liaison; Scott Berggren, Brad
Fortin, and Gene Hackett from the city staff.
Mr. Fortin reviewed the Forestry Annual report, highlighting work that was done in the
past year. The Tree Board discussed the boulevard planting ordinance and thought it
should be looked into for some changes. Mr. Fortin explained that there were some
issues with the boulevard trees regarding sidewalk and sewer issues and tree trimming
at additional costs to the city. Mr. Fortin said he will look further into the issue and see
what he might recommend.
The Arbor days plans were reviewed. The Crystal Fund is donating money for the tree
giveaway. Volunteers for the event include: Lori, Meredith, Tom, Nancy and Erin and
Elizabeth.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:59pm.
The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting was called to order at 7:04 pm by
Chairperson Nancy LaRoche. Commission members in attendance were: Lynn Haney,
Lori Merriam, Erin Kolb, Meredith Torres-Walsh, Guy Mueller, Mark Novak and Lassana
Bamba Jr.. Also present were Elizabeth Dahl, Council Liaison; Scott Berggren, Brad
Fortin, and Gene Hackett from the city staff.
Presenters Richard and Irina Fursman worked with the Commission to begin the Becker
Park redevelopment process. This meeting was to determine the key questions for the
consensus planning workshop. Discussion was held on 2 main topics: current status and
the desired status; and then additional discussion on whom the stakeholders would be
for future meetings. Several topics were discussed. The stakeholder meeting was
scheduled for Thursday June 2.
The minutes were approved as sent.
Mr. Fortin and Mr. Berggren reviewed the Welcome Park plans for the April 20th Open
House. Commission members should attend – the following people said they would be
there: Lynn, Nancy, and Erin.
The Commission decided to keep the scheduled May 11 park tour.
Minutes: April 2016
[2]
Mr. Fortin showed the Commission what the Bassett Creek Regional Trail map kiosk will
look like it will be placed near 32nd and Adair Avenue N. The trail agreement with Three
Rives Park District went to the City Council on April 5 and was approved.
Mr. Jungroth asked Mr. Fortin about cutting down/trimming trees at Becker Park as
some have grown to obscure the facility. Mr. Fortin said that is on his work plan.
Monthly reports were discussed. Ms. Haney added that Half Price Books and Love
Works will be Crystal Frolics sponsors. The button contest entry has been extended.
Ms Dahl added that she and Councilmember Peak are working to put together a Task
Force on volunteers.
Mr. Fortin informed the Commission that a resident living near Hagemeister Pond
Preserve has been very helpful in keeping the park clean. The Commission will send a
thank you note.
Mr. Mueller reported that the Crystal Fund is donating to the city for:
Arbor Day trees
Accessible swings in playgrounds
Updating the park signs
Members were reminded of the Crystal Business Expo on April 23 from 11 – 2.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:20pm.
Gene Hackett
Recorder