02-07-1994 Park Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1994 McMillan felt that a recommendation should be forwarded to the City Council to close all but two of the rinks because she would prefer to see two rinks well maintained than four poorly-maintained rinks. She thought if the number of rinks was reduced, the quality might be improved. Gerhardson noted that the timing of the maintenance was very important and outdoor rink maintenance was very labor intensive. Discussion ensued regarding which rinks to close, how many to close or whether they should all be closed until adequate staff and funds were available to maintain them. The operating budget was discussed regarding funding for park maintenance costs. The Commission felt that the City Administrator should be invited to attend their next meeting to explain how the budget was structured and address concerns regarding costs and maintenance. Flint moved, Howells seconded, that a memo should be drafted inviting City Administrator Ron Moorse to attend the March Park Commission meeting to address the concerns of the Park Commission and provide solutions regarding park maintenance. Ayes 5, nays 0. (#6) PLANNING FOR FRENCH CREEK PRESERVE (SUSAN WILSON) Wilson reviewed the list that she and Gerhardson had developed last fall regarding things which needed to be done prior to the opening of French Creek this spring. She noted that the path all the way around the pond may have to be postponed, as there is some filling that needs to be done. They plan to grade in part of it, and go from there. She stated there was a natural parking area and signs will be put up. They plan to plant about six trees along the fence to screen the parking from the sewer plant. She stated that the park will be open in the spring of 1994. Signs for the preserve were discussed, and Wilson noted they have tried to be sensitive to the homeowner, since the access abuts his driveway. The $300 donation from Dayton employees was discussed, and it was noted that Orono will need to send representatives from the City to accept the check. (#7) PLANNING FOR CANOE STORAGE AT SUMMIT BEACH Gerhardson reported that advertisements for canoe storage availability will be published in the local paper in March and April in order to give maximum exposure to the availability of this facility. (#8) UPDATE ON OBA FIELD AT SCHOOL PROPERTY Ilse stated that at this point no agreement or schedule has been reached. The City Attorney sent a proposed agreement proposal to the school but there has been no response from the school. She contacted the school and was informed that they intend to have the agreement back to City staff this week. She noted 6