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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION <br /> MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 <br /> (#7 - Open Space Planning - Continued) <br /> Welles asked Flint if the Commission was on the right track with this document; and if <br /> so, then the spaces would be identified that meet the criteria with ranking, prioritization, <br /> and reasoning behind why the open space was chosen. Flint suggested the Council be <br /> advised on all facets of the review on an on-going basis. Wilson suggested a work <br /> session with Council for feedback prior to a public meeting. <br /> Beal questioned whether land cost and the financial benefit needs to be shown. Wilson <br /> said there were other long term funding options that could be developed realizing the <br /> Commission will look at parcels that are desirable for acquisition but may never be <br /> acquired. <br /> White asked that a decision should be balanced on what should be open space and what <br /> should be parks. Wilson referenced the 1994 citizen survey where open space was <br /> determined to be the top priority of the residents. Erickson questioned whether open <br /> space was still the top priority noting the high number of young families entering the <br /> community. He suggested an additional survey be conducted to determine this. Erickson <br /> reported that the sports programs are more than full and may indicate the need for other <br /> recreational development. <br /> Wilson questioned whether the demographics show significant changes in the City. Flint <br /> said a non-scientific survey had been conducted several years prior to the 1994 scientific <br /> survey and resulted in the same outcome. He felt there may be a need for an athletic field <br /> as suggested recently but does believe the survey is correct. <br /> Erickson acknowledged the importance of open space and trails but indicated additional <br /> recreational needs are being required citing the facilities currently available. Wilson <br /> noted Erickson is within the recreational group of people and will hear that need from <br /> them. She feels the survey reflects a cross section of people. <br /> McDermott said the number of homes with children were noted but there was shown a <br /> low need for more play areas. He believes the survey should be conducted within the <br /> next 10 years. <br /> Erickson noted the Commission is looking at long term planning and believes the <br /> population will change and continue to do so, and asked that this be considered. <br /> McDermott suggested the school demographics should be cross-referenced. <br /> Welles said he concurred with Erickson regarding the influx of younger families. He <br /> questioned whether the average age in Orono has dropped. <br /> 4 <br />