Lawrence Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
March 8, 2016
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MEMBERS PRESENT: |
Chair, Sue Hack, Vice Chair, Allen Humphrey, Joe Caldwell, Andy Clayton and LaRisa Chambers |
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MEMBERS ABSENT: |
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STAFF PRESENT: |
Ernie Shaw, Tim Laurent, Mark Hecker, Jimmy Gibbs, Roger Steinbrock, Lynne Zollner |
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GUESTS: |
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I. Meeting called to order by Chair Hack
II. Approval of February 9, 2016, minutes by Caldwell, and seconded by Humphrey.
III. Concerns
Chambers reported the port-a-john located at Burroughs Creek Trail near the playground equipment has been removed. Hecker will look into it. Hack relayed she has received several complimentary comments regarding our staff at SPL and how they always inquire with parents and grandparents if they need assistance. Shaw reported Jimmy has been working with the Health Department staff on signage for our tobacco free parks that will go into effect on April 1.
IV. Lynn Zollner – Historical Parks Information
Zollner is requesting recommendation from the board to move forward to list Oak Hill Cemetery and Clinton Park on the local historical register. Shaw commented on concerns regarding the funding to maintain those monuments that would be considered historical, for example the holding vault. Zollner responded she has applied for a grant via the Douglas County Heritage Commission to restore it. A survey of monuments will take place and will be classified in tiers. The major monument architectural pieces like the holding vault would be classified as tier one. Those that are not placed in the first tier will be furthered reviewed on the options that are available either for restoration or documentation of removal. The Historical Resources Commission is scheduled to discuss in their March meeting moving forward with their recommendation to the City Commission. At this time, the board has agreed to continue the conversation with the Historic Resources Commission.
V. P & R Master Plan --- Steering Committee set (attached) – Process beginning
Shaw reported the first Steering Committee meeting is scheduled for March 28th. The process will take approximately 6-8 months. Shaw is requesting a list of focus groups/organizations, those who use our parks, programs and facilities.
VI. 2017 Budget Process
Shaw reported the 2017 budget will be interesting. Staff is coming together to discuss hypothetical scenarios if the sales tax is altered in anyway.
VII. Flower planting dates for volunteers: http://lawrenceks.org/lprd/flowerplanting
Shaw indicated volunteer flower planting dates are now on our city website. There are several dates available for volunteers to sign up.
VIII. Possibility of Batting Cage Nets YSC/Discuss Batting Cages at Clinton
Shaw voiced concern of the funding that is required to maintain the batting cages we currently have. Placing nets at the baseball/softball facilities currently housing batting cages would be an option staff could consider in the future.
IX. Staff reports
i. Recreation/ Expenses-Revenue/2016 Financial Updates
Hecker reported February looks good on the recreation side. Total revenue over expenses is ($143,276). Golf Course revenue is down, total revenue over expenses is (-177,027). The total is a negative due to substantial PO’s being cut for equipment, golf cart leases and product purchases. If you look at the year-to-date we are doing better than last year at this time.
ii. Parks/Golf Course/Projects Report/2016 financial updates
Hecker reported blinds are being installed at SPL. The HVAC unit at the Indoor Aquatics Center is in disrepair and will need to be moved to the 2016 project list to be repaired this summer.
iii. Marketing Report
i. Steinbrock reported the Summer/Fall 2016 Activity Guide will be released on Sunday, April 24. Planning is underway for a ribbon cutting ceremony Noon Thursday, May 5, for the Burcham Park River Trail.
X. Other – None
Meeting adjourned. Next Advisory Board meeting scheduled for noon, Tuesday, April 12th, 2016, Parks and Recreation Conference Room located at South Park Administration Office.