12-11-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 27, 2017 7:00 o'clock p.m. 9. PARKS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN — Continued Rick Meyers, Park Commission Chair, stated the Park Commission attempted to look at the golf course more globally and that the plan includes some projects that would help enhance use of the golf course beyond just golfing. The subcommittee looked at other golf courses in the area to see what they do during the wintertime and other times of the years. The capital improvement plan provides an outline of what can be done at the golf course and is not a firm commitment to any one project. Each individual project would be discussed in-depth prior to proceeding forward with it. Meyers stated the intent was to look at what is needed to help make the golf course better and then to look at expanding the activities. Walsh stated the City reinstituted the Park Commission after a period of inactivity and that the main goal is to improve the City parks. A number of improvements have already been made to the parks, including the creation of a dog park at Lurton Park. Walsh stated the Orono Golf Course is a community asset and helps keep people in the community. Walsh stated the clubhouse could become a little community center that helps bring people together similar to Lurton Park. Dankey commented she loves the winter activity concept at the golf course. Dankey asked if there is an area that could be flooded for an ice rink. Meyers indicated there is not at the present time but that is a possibility at some point in the future. Meyers stated the Park Commission is interested in seeing what the residents want at the parks and that the CIP is a starting point. Walsh noted the Park Commission is also looking at resurfacing some of the basketball courts. Meyers stated the plan will allow the City to apply for grants and other funding. Jane Delaney, 1315 Wooddale Avenue, stated she is here because she would like to provide some insight about what has gone on historically at the golf course. Stay the Course was started in the winter of 2012, which helped increase the number of volunteers helping out at the golf course. Delaney stated the neighbors and residents are excited that the City is willing to look at putting some money back into the golf course and that she would like to form a committee to provide some additional input and be involved in the process. Walsh suggested she get in contact with Rick Meyers. Walsh stated the City is always interested in obtaining the input of the residents. Delaney noted she included her phone number in the letter she submitted. Crosby commented he is interested in adding winter activities and expanding the use of the golf course. Delaney stated in years past there were cross-country skiing and groomed trails that were lit with candles. Delaney indicated she also worked there when a lot of the events took place, such as small corporate parties and snow tubing. Delaney stated there are a lot of possibilities. Dankey indicated she also is in agreement with improving the basketball courts, especially at the Navarre park. Page 6 of 12