11-03-1997 Park Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO PARK COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1997 (#2B) REPORT FROM OCTOBER 27, 1997 COUNCIL MEETING -WILSON Wilson reported that the Council informed her the Park Commission's recommendation for public use of free ice skating time at the Orono Ice Arena was turned down. Gappa said the minutes of the Council meeting referencing that topic was included in the packet information. McDermott noted there was the issue of supporting a particular sport. Erickson said the problem with maintaining outdoor rinks was also discussed. Erickson said the Council noted the availability of free ice time at the Pond Ice Rink. Erickson felt the idea of goodwill was not projected to the Council. Gappa said the issue was discussed in the Mayor/Council Report but no formal motion was taken. Wilson suggested that Council members be called ahead of time in the future to discuss matters of importance. Wilson reported that the Council asked the Commission to continue their review of open space. Wilson reported the Council discussed the Stubbs Bay Public Access issue. The Council was informed by City Attorney Barrett that the public use of the Olsen property over at least a six year period results in the property becoming public property. Wilson said the City will continue to work with Olsen. The Council said they were concerned with vacating what is a public access. WINTER SPORTS (#6A) SKATING RINKS Wilson questioned whether the recommendations recently made by the Commission should remain the same with the Council's opposition to the use of ice time at the arena. Gappa said he received one call from a neighbor of Hackberry Park, who suggested the rink be maintained. Gappa said he informed him it was a matter of water problems. Wilson questioned whether a letter should be sent to the neighborhoods (Hackberry and Bederwood) affected by the rink closures, explaining the reasoning behind the closures (poor ice quality), and see if any response is received. Erickson reported that Holbrook rink has had problems with ice quality as well. Wilson said she believes if a ice rink is provided, it must be properly maintained and of good quality. She felt if a good rink was provided, it would be used. McDermott felt that was possible at Casco. Lighting would have to be added. Wilson reiterated the need to send the letters to the neighborhoods. The rinks will remain closed if no response is received. She would like to continue looking at the opportunity of providing a good outdoor facility for ice skating in Orono. 9