09-05-2017 Park Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING Monday, May 1, 2017 6:30 o'clock p.m. Williams asked whether the Park Commission should attempt to get businesses involved in adopting a park. Edwards stated the City's existing adopt -a -park policy does not prohibit businesses or organizations from adopting a park. Meyers stated signup for the program is available on the City's website. Roath stated he likes the concept of the adopt -a -park program and that it is a good way to engage the community. Roath stated the question is whether someone can sign up for the program and then never do anything. Roath stated recognition of someone's efforts is one way to encourage participation and that the mockup sign looks great. Roath stated he has received one inquiry from a family to adopt Lorton Park and that in his view there is interest out there to adopt a park. Bryce Johnson noted the volunteers would also work with the Park Commissioner assigned to that park, which would help ensure the volunteers are doing appropriate work at the parks. Meyers stated there probably should be some guidelines about tool usage and vegetation removal. Brenda Johnson commented more than one family could adopt a park depending on what the needs of the park are. Johnson stated there are businesses who actually encourage their employees to do community service and that this could perhaps be some form of friendly competition among local businesses. Johnson stated the volunteers would need to coordinate with Adam or the Park Commission to make sure the people have some idea of what is expected of them. Berg stated the Park Commission has not really worked at disseminating the adopt -a -park program and that in her view both businesses and residents could be a part of the program. Berg stated the Park Commission should set some guidelines on what the volunteers should and should not do and that the Park Commissioner assigned to that park should be in contact with the volunteers and guide them. Beth Meyers stated from a personal standpoint she asked about the adopt -a -park program and that she would have liked more direction on what should be done. Meyers noted the City of Wayzata has designated dates for buckthorn removal, flower planting, etc. Williams agreed it would be a good idea to have one day to plant flowers, etc., that could be published in the local newspaper. Meyers stated he would like the program to involve more than just trash pickup and that he would like the volunteers to accomplish something that is more meaningful. Meyers suggested the Park Commission come up with some things for the volunteers to do at each of the parks. Edwards stated a rough estimate for a sign is $50. Meyers stated the nature parks would be a good place for the signs but that he is not sure there is much to do at the more active parks. Mayor Walsh stated another option would be to accept financial contributions to help fund cleanup Page 6 of 9