19-08 Approved Commission MinutesCrystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission - Neighborhood Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2019
Sunnyview Park
The Parks and Recreation Commission Neighborhood Meeting was called to order at
7:00 pm by Commission Chair Lori Merriam.
Commission members in attendance were: Dave Anderson, Lynn Haney, Erin Kolb, Andy Leipold, Jesse
McCaffrey, Lori Merriam, Terencio Safford, and Meredith Torres-Walsh. Also present; Anne Norris, John
Elholm, Brad Fortin, Deputy Chief Hubbard, and Lei-Lani Fischer from the City Staff.
Introductions were made of the Commission members and City Staff.
Ms. Norris provided information on the 5-year plan for streets and utilities that will affect the area. She
also informed residents about the 2-year budget process, and mentioned the new Becker Park in 2020.
Deputy Chief Hubbard provided information on the new Vitals service which provides officers with
information on vulnerable residents to better assist them. He also informed residents about two new
driving laws that are now in effect, the new medication drop box at the Police Office and the social
media that the Police Department uses.
Mr. Elholm gave a construction update on Becker Park, an overview of the park system master plan and
recapped the grand opening of the new softball field at Welcome Park.
Mr. Fortin highlighted recent and upcoming park projects and maintenance activities. He also informed
the residents about the playground inspection program and talked about the new park signage.
Ms. Fischer gave an update on programs and events in the Recreation Department. She highlighted
current and upcoming activities and informed residents that the fall brochure will be in the mail soon,
with registration opening on-line August 12.
A resident received a Crystal Community Center activity gift certificate in a drawing.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:43 pm.
John Elholm
Recorder
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes
August 7, 2019
Sunnyview Park
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting was called to order at 7:49 pm by Commission
Chair Lori Merriam.
Commission members in attendance were: Dave Anderson, Lynn Haney, Erin Kolb, Andy Leipold, Jesse
McCaffrey, Lori Merriam, Terencio Safford, and Meredith Torres-Walsh. Also present; Anne Norris, John
Elholm, Brad Fortin, Deputy Chief Hubbard, and Lei-Lani Fischer from the City Staff.
There was no public comment.
Ms. Kolb made a motion to approve the July Park and Recreation Commission minutes as
written; Ms. Torres-Walsh seconded the motion. The Park and Recreation Commission minutes
for July were approved as written.
Chair report acknowledged Lynn Haney and all who helped with the Crystal Frolics.
Becker Park construction update was given by Mr. Elholm. He also shared a custom bicycle rack
design with the city logo that could be used at Becker Park. The design was favorably received.
A proposed new park rules sign was presented and reviewed by the commission. The friendlier
language on the sign was appreciated, but there was some discussion on the smoking provision
rule. The current tobacco free policy will be brought back to the commission for further
discussion.
Potential improvements to Bass Lake Park were presented by Mr. Elholm. There was discussion
on adding a path and new shelter – similar to what was proposed at Iron Horse Park. The
potential design will be discussed further at the September PRC meeting – which will be held at
Bass Lake Park.
There was no City Council report.
There was no Crystal Fund report.
The maintenance report was given by Mr. Fortin. He provided information on potential
buckthorn removal and a sustainable forest project at Bassett Creek Park. He also commented
on the positive feedback from the Frolics event.
The recreation report was given by Ms. Fischer. She highlighted the African Drum and Dance
Jamboree and the continuation of free outdoor exercise classes into the fall.
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes – Page 2 August 7, 2019
The director’s report was given by Mr. Elholm. He highlighted the great variety of summer
programs and activities that were held. He also mentioned that the annual MRPA State
Conference conflicts with the November PRC meeting date. He will be recommending that the
date of the November PRC meeting be changed since multiple staff will all be attending the
Conference.
The community report was given by Ms. Haney, which highlighted the positive comments
received about the 2019 Crystal Frolics event.
Citizen contact was made with the 81 Night to Unite block parties held in Crystal. Mr. Safford is
working with CCX media to highlight City commissions.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 pm.
John Elholm
Recorder