03-02-2015 Park Commission Packet

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING Monday, January 5, 2015 7:00 o'clock p.m. Edwards noted a future item on the Park Commission's work session agenda is to develop a parks plan and compile an inventory of what exists at each park. Edwards stated part of that process could include identification of projects for Scouts or other interested groups. Edwards stated if the City had a preliminary list that would be very helpful to Staff, especially since the Park Commission only meets once every other month. Edwards noted Alex Knueppel is looking at doing the work in April or May. Meyers stated the Park Commission is still relatively new and that they need to tackle one project at a time. Meyers recommended the Park Commission deal with some of the bigger items in a work session, such as working on the 5 -year plan and new signage. Brenda Johnson stated given the fact that this is a new Park Commission; they do not understand the history of the parks and that having a completed inventory for each park would be very helpful. Johnson stated the book compiled by Edwards is also very helpful in understanding the history of the parks. Bryce Johnson asked if a bullet point summary of the proposal at French Creek Park could be provided, which could then be approved at the next meeting. Meyers requested that Staff provide a list of items that can be done at French Creek and to remain in contact with Alex Knueppel. 4. UPDATE ON COUNCIL ACTIONS A. PARK POLICIES Meyers reported the park and maintenance policies were approved by the City Council at their December meeting. Meyers stated the only caveat the Council placed on the policies was for the Park Commission to identify the type of buoys that are being considered as well as the costs associated with purchase and maintenance of them or another type of demarcation system that could be utilized for the swim beaches. Edwards stated his understanding of the Council action was that they would like to approve the type of buoys or signage that would be installed. Edwards indicated he has already researched buoys and signage and that he will present that to the City Council once the list is complete. Edwards stated he plans to do that in the near future so the work can be done this spring. Bryce Johnson asked if a sign would be acceptable. Meyers stated the main concern is the sign visibility from the water, and that if there are swim buoys out in the water, those would be more noticeable. Bryce Johnson stated the buoys should be located in areas where it is safe to swim and not give the wrong impression that a certain area is safe for swimming. Edwards stated he understands the concern of the Park Commission about placement of the buoys. Meyers stated there are two types of buoys and that he is talking about buoys to keep the boats out. Page 6 of 11