02-07-1994 Park Commission Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1994 Rick Kiemen, 1212 Briar Street, inquired about the future for the old post office, and commented that if it was going to remain on that site, he would like to see the road looping around the building and going back out. LaDean McWilliams commented she had head there was going to be a drive-up window installed in the Post Office, and Lili McMillan stated she had heard there was going to be a collection box installed on the site. Gerhardson stated that some off-street parking would be provided but it has not yet been decided where it will be located because of the potential impact on the park. Discussion ensued regarding the amount of available space around the Post Office. Greg Peterson, 1355 Arbor Street, commented that it was a very tight area with little area available for expansion. Curt Quady, 1223 South Brown Road, stated he felt that a fence should be installed along Brown Road to keep the kids safe from the traffic on Brown Road. He commented that the believed the uses for the land would be dictated by the area available. He felt that this could be one of the best parks in Orono. Chair Flint inquired how many of the residents present were in favor of closing Prospect only, and 16 voted aye, 2 nays. He inquired how many supported closing Crystal only and there were 8 ayes, 6 nays. He inquired how many supported closing both and there were 11 ayes and 3 nays. Judy Christensen, 1251 Brown Road South, stated she wanted more land for the park, but hoped the City would look at the traffic in the area to avoid creating problems and also keep safety issues in focus. Mary Crear, 1980 Spates Avenue, inquired what the City was planning for the old City Council building on Parcel C. She also inquired if the Post Office could be moved into the old City Council building and use the existing building as a warming house. Gerhardson responded that the City was trying to determine the cost of renovation of the old Council Chambers building, because it required lead paint abatement, and also there was no electricity or plumbing service to the building. Cary Farley, 1250 Arbor Street, stated she did not want the building there and inquired if it could be moved to Nurenberg Gardens to see if they would like to use it. She did not want her tax dollars used to maintain it. Cindy Lamontagne, 1270 Arbor Lane, stated she agreed with Mrs. Farley, and would rather not have the building used as a warming house because of the lead paint. She felt it was wasting space. 2