23-03 Approved Commission MinutesCrystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes
March 1, 2023
Crystal Public Works Shop
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by
Commission Chair Tony Sumnicht.
Commission members in attendance: Tony Sumnicht (Chair), Jesse McCaffrey (Vice-Chair), Taji
Onesirosan (Secretary), Shaz Ahmadi, Dave Anderson, Joyce Cooper, Lynn Haney, and Jennifer
Zielinski. Also present were John Budziszewski, Council Liaison; John Elholm, Brad Fortin, and
Scott Berggren from the City Staff.
There was no public comment.
Ms. Haney made a motion to approve the February Park and Recreation Commission minutes;
Mr. Onesirosan seconded the motion. The Park and Recreation Commission minutes for
February were approved as written.
Mr. Sumnicht gave the chairperson’s report. During the open forum, he would like each
commission member to share things they are passionate about within parks and recreation.
The Commission Members reviewed and voted on the Neighbors Recognizing Neighbors Award
nominations. Award winners will be recognized at an upcoming Crystal City Council Meeting.
Five neighbors were recommended for the award – names were redacted during the selection
process, so names are not included in the motion.
Ms. Haney made a motion to approve five neighbors as winners of the Neighbors Recognizing
Neighbors Award; Ms. Zielinski seconded the motion. The Neighbors Recognizing Neighbors
Award winners were approved on a voice vote, with 7 voting ‘aye’ and 1 voting ‘no’.
Mr. Elholm provided an update on park projects scheduled for 2023. On February 7, the city
council approved contracts for the Bassett Creek Park pedestrian bridge, Bassett Creek Park dog
park and Grogan Park parking lot. A pre-construction meeting was held between City staff and
contractors working on these projects on March 1. On February 7, the city council also
approved contracts to purchase and install the play area for Broadway Park and picnic shelters
for Broadway Park and Crystal Highlands Park. We are still awaiting the selection results of a
Hennepin County Youth Sports Grant for the Welcome Park project. City council approval of
contracts for the purchase and installation of the play area and fitness pod for Welcome Park
will be sought on March 21. City staff received the specifications for the poured tee pads at the
Bassett Creek Disc Golf Course. New baskets for the course were ordered. A few existing
baskets will be re-installed in parks throughout the Crystal park system.
Crystal Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes – Page 2 March 1, 2023
Commission members discussed items during the open forum, giving input, asking questions,
and commenting. Mr. Sumnicht led a roundtable discussion where everyone shared their
individual passion for parks and recreation. Common themes from the discussion included
equity in parks, awareness of parks, health and fitness, importance of trails, mental health, teen
programming, getting youth outside, senior programming, accessibility and support of the
ecosystem.
Mr. Budziszewski presented the council report. The city is seeking applications for an opening
on the city council. They also approved several purchases for upcoming park projects.
Mr. Fortin gave a report for park maintenance. Mr. Berggren gave a report for recreation
programming, including information on brochure development and data from spring/summer
registrations.
Mr. Elholm gave the Director’s report. During an upcoming workshop organized by the
Robbinsdale Area Schools, he will present with Michelle Margo (affiliated with Minnesota State
Mankato) about parks and recreation as a profession to interested students.
Mr. Sumnicht gave a Crystal Frolics report. The Crystal Frolics Committee is discussing
adverting options with the Sun Post.
Mr. Elholm gave the Friends of Crystal Parks report. They are planning for their annual plant
sale on May 20.
Ms. Haney made a motion to adjourn the meeting; Mr. McCaffrey seconded the motion.
The commission adjourned the meeting at 8:54 pm.
John Elholm, Recorder